MAOI produces 10 documented subjective effects across 2 categories.
Full MAOI profileMonoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs, alter consciousness not through direct receptor activation but by preventing the breakdown of monoamine neurotransmitters, thereby increasing their concentration in the synaptic cleft. The subjective experience of MAOIs varies depending on whether they are taken alone or in combination with other substances.
When taken alone, MAOIs at therapeutic doses produce a gradual mood elevation over days to weeks rather than an acute subjective experience. There may be a subtle increase in energy, emotional resilience, and interest in activities. The effects integrate seamlessly into normal functioning and are most apparent in their absence: the lifting of depressive symptoms rather than the creation of positive symptoms.
In combination with tryptamine psychedelics, MAOIs serve as potentiators, dramatically extending and intensifying the psychedelic experience. Ayahuasca is the prototypical example. The MAOI component prevents the rapid breakdown of DMT, allowing it to produce extended visionary experiences that would not be possible with DMT alone. The critical safety concern with MAOIs is their interaction potential: the combination with serotonin releasers or serotonin-rich foods can trigger life-threatening serotonin syndrome or hypertensive crisis.
Diarrhea is the occurrence of frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements as a side effect of certain psychoactive substances, resulting from either direct GI irritation or pharmacological alterations to gut motility and fluid absorption.
HeadacheA painful sensation of pressure, throbbing, or aching in the head that can range from a dull background discomfort to a debilitating pounding that dominates awareness. Substance-induced headaches may occur during the acute effects, during the comedown, or as a rebound symptom hours to days after use.
Increased heart rateA noticeable acceleration of heartbeat that can range from a subtle awareness of one's pulse to a forceful, rapid pounding felt throughout the chest, neck, and temples. This effect is among the most commonly reported physiological responses to psychoactive substances and often accompanies stimulation, anxiety, or physical exertion during intoxication.
NauseaAn uncomfortable sensation of queasiness and stomach discomfort that may or may not lead to vomiting, often occurring during the onset phase of many substances.
Pain reliefA suppression of negative physical sensations such as aches and pains, ranging from dulled awareness of discomfort to complete inability to perceive pain.
SeizureUncontrolled brain electrical activity causing convulsions and loss of consciousness -- a life-threatening medical emergency requiring immediate help.
Serotonin syndromeSerotonin syndrome is a potentially fatal medical emergency caused by excessive serotonergic activity in the central and peripheral nervous systems, typically resulting from combining multiple serotonin-elevating substances, and manifesting as a dangerous triad of neuromuscular hyperactivity, autonomic dysfunction, and altered mental status.
Spontaneous physical movementsSpontaneous physical movements are involuntary, seemingly random yet patterned body movements — twitches, swaying, gestures, or full-body undulations — that appear to arise from and correspond to the individual's internal cognitive and sensory experience rather than from conscious motor commands.
VasodilationVasodilation is the relaxation and widening of blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow, reduced blood pressure, and visible effects such as flushing and bloodshot eyes, most commonly associated with cannabinoids, nitrites, and alcohol.
MAOI can produce 9 physical effects including headache, nausea, increased heart rate, serotonin syndrome, and 5 more.
MAOI produces 1 cognitive effects including psychosis.