Which category of drugs has NOT been associated with gingival enlargement?

Gingival enlargement, or gingival hyperplasia, is a condition where the gum tissue becomes enlarged due to various medications. Anticonvulsants, such as phenytoin, are well known for causing this side effect, as they can stimulate fibroblast proliferation in the gums. Immunosuppressants, particularly cyclosporine, are also recognized for contributing to gingival overgrowth due to similar cellular processes. Calcium channel blockers, which include medications like nifedipine, have been implicated in gingival enlargement because they can cause changes in the gum tissue’s structure and promote fibroblast activity.

In contrast, MAO inhibitors, a class of drugs primarily used to treat depression and anxiety, have not been associated with gingival enlargement. They work mainly by inhibiting the breakdown of neurotransmitters but do not appear to have a significant impact on gum tissue health or growth. This distinction underscores the importance of understanding the pharmacological profiles of different drug classes and their side effects, especially in dental and oral health contexts.