USMLE Step 2 Antibiotics and Treatments Practice Exam

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a class of drugs that can slow the progression of Parkinson's disease. They work by inhibiting the activity of the monoamine oxidase enzyme, which breaks down dopamine in the brain. By preventing dopamine degradation, MAOIs increase the availability of this crucial neurotransmitter within the central nervous system, thereby enhancing dopaminergic transmission and contributing to a stabilization of motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.

Moreover, MAOIs have neuroprotective effects, which might benefit patients by slowing disease progression. This can be especially important in early stages of Parkinson’s, as it may help maintain function and quality of life for a longer period.

While other classes of drugs, like dopamine agonists, also play a significant role in managing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease by stimulating dopamine receptors, their primary function is symptomatic relief rather than slowing disease progression. Similarly, COMT inhibitors are used to enhance the effect of levodopa but do not have a direct role in altering the course of the disease. Beta blockers are primarily used for controlling symptoms such as tremors but are not involved in impacting the progression of Parkinson's disease itself.

Thus, MAOIs are a unique class that is recognized for their potential