New orally active monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors

Abstract Four derivatives of benzoyl and anisoyl hydrazine, have been selected for a comparison with phenelzine and pheniprazine. The new compounds are potentiators of tryptamine and inhibitors of reserpine with a therapeutic index much more favorable than in the case of phenelzine and pheniprazine when the oral route of administration is used. The new compounds inhibit MAO activity and increase brain serotonin and noradrenaline levels.