MAO-B inhibitor

drug

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Last updated

July 20, 2026

Quick Summary

MAO-B inhibitors are a type of antiparkinson drug used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson disease and other parkinsonism conditions. MAO-B stands for monoamine oxidase B, an enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, MAO-B inhibitors slow the degradation of dopamine, thereby extending its effects.12

These drugs are often prescribed in combination with levodopa and carbidopa to enhance levodopa's effectiveness. The primary goal of these medications is to manage the symptoms of Parkinson disease, as they do not cure the condition.1

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antiparkinson drug
COMT and MAO-B inhibitors
Similar to COMT inhibitors, MAO-B inhibitors slow the degradation of dopamine in the brain. Best known of these agents is selegiline, which extends the effects of levodopa and often is prescribed in combination with levodopa and carbidopa.
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Similar to COMT inhibitors, MAO-B inhibitors slow the degradation of dopamine in the brain. Best known of these agents is selegiline, which extends the effects of levodopa and often is prescribed in combination with levodopa and carbidopa.
Read More