Monoamine oxidase inhibitors cause an antidepressant effect by

A. facilitating the breakdown of norepinephrine.

B. increasing the breakdown of transmitters within the brain.

C. inhibiting the breakdown of neurotransmitters in the brain.

D. facilitating the breakdown of dopamine.

C. inhibiting the breakdown of neurotransmitters in the brain

Explanation:

Monoamino oxidase (MAO) facilitates the break down and removal of neurotransmitters like nor-epinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin in brain which have excitatory effects on neurons. When these neurotransmitters are degraded by MAO, this would lead to decreased excitatory level of neurons and it will become less functionable as seen in most of the patients suffering from depression, panic disorders, social disphobia and some neurodegenerative disease.

Monoaminooxidase Inhibitors prevents the degradation of above mentioned neurotransmitters which leads to increasing their levels and concentration which allows them to work and influence on neurons effected by depression.