MONOAMINE-OXIDASE INHIBITORS IN OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER

Abstract

The use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) [phenelzine and tranylcypromine] in 8 patients with severe obessive-compulsive disorder is described. In 4 cases, the MAOI produced rapid and sustained remission of symptoms; no response was seen in 4 other patients. All patients who responded to MAOI, but none of the nonresponders, had phobic anxiety and/or panic attacks. A trial of MAOI is indicated in obsessive-compulsive disorder, especially when phobic anxiety or panic attacks form part of the clinical picture.