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Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) were the first type of antidepressant developed. They're effective, but they've generally been replaced by antidepressants that are safer and cause fewer side effects.

Use of MAOIs typically requires diet restrictions and avoiding certain other medications because MAOIs can cause dangerously high blood pressure when taken with certain foods or medications. In spite of side effects, these medications are still a good option for some people. In certain cases, they relieve depression when other treatments have failed.