Is Xanax a MAO Inhibitor?

MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors are a class of medication that is used to treat depression. Benzodiazepines are a class of medication that treats anxiety disorders, seizures, and muscle spasms. Though the classes have some condition overlap, they differ on mechanism of action. Xanax is not an MAO inhibitor. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs.

Xanax

• Xanax is the brand name for the medication alprazolam. Xanax is prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. According to MedlinePlus, the medication may also be used to treat agoraphobia, depression, and premenstrual syndrome.

Benzodiazepines

• Benzodiazepines enhance the actions of the neurotransmitter gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA). This slows GABA affected neuron activity in receptors associated with stress and sedation.

Benzodiazepine Medications

• Brand names of Benzodiazepine medications available include Valium, Ativan and Librium.

MAO Inhibitors

• MAO inhibitors treat depression by blocking a nervous system chemical enzyme called monoamine oxidase. That enzyme is thus prevented from metabolizing the mood stabilizing neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

MAO Inhibitor Medications

• The brand names of MAO inhibitor medications available in the United States include Nardil, Marplan, Emsam, and Parnate.

Conclusion

• Though Xanax may be used to treat depression, it is not in the class of MAO inhibitors. Xanax affects an entirely different body chemical than MAO inhibitors.