Regulators Approve Patch to Treat Depression

Although a patch is a convenient way to treat depression, it might not be as good as it sounds. The drug in the patch, Selegiline, belongs to the antidepressant class called MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors). MAOIs have fallen out of favor because of their many side effects, including a dangerous rise in blood pressure when patients consume foods containing tyramine. Foods that would be restricted while on the patch include draft beer, red wine, fava beans, salamis, aged cheeses, soy sauce and other products. The drug will be marketed under the brand name Emsam.