Biochemical effects of
L-deprenyl in atypical depressives


Liebowitz MR, Karoum F, Quitkin FM,
Davies SO, Schwartz D, Levitt M, Linnoila M

Biol Psychiatry 1985 May; 20(5):558-65 1991; 136:91-4

ABSTRACT

To examine the biochemical effects of 10-30 mg/day L-deprenyl, measurement of 24-hr urinary output of phenylethylamine (PEA), 3-methoxy 4-hydroxy phenylethyleneglycol (MHPG), and L-deprenyl's amphetamine metabolites were carried out before and during the treatment of atypical depressives.  Platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity was also assessed. With L-deprenyl 10-30 mg/day, the expected MAO B inhibition occurred, as indicated by significant increase in urinary PEA excretion and virtual disappearance of platelet MAO activity.  Twenty-five to 33% of the daily dose of L-deprenyl was recovered as urinary methamphetamine or amphetamine.  Excretion of MHPG was significantly decreased with L-deprenyl 10-20 mg/day. Overall, the results suggest that L-deprenyl's antidepressant effects are mediated by some mechanism other than, or in addition to, MAO B inhibition.

 

 

 

 

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