# Isocarboxazid

National Cancer Institute

## Source

National Cancer Institute. *Isocarboxazid*. NCI Thesaurus. Code C47573.

A hydralazine and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor with antidepressant activity. Isocarboxazid blocks the breakdown (oxidative deamination) of biogenic amines by inhibiting MAO, thereby increasing the concentrations of norepinephrine and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) at central aminergic receptors. These neurotransmitters are involved in sustaining mood and emotions. The down-regulation of central beta-adrenergic and serotonergic receptors by chronic inhibition of MAO may also contribute to the antidepressant effects seen by isocarboxazid. (NCI05)