Monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) from rat brain was inhibited strongly by the prepared cadmium and zinc ethanolamine complexes obtained from their sulphate and chloride salts. The inhibition of MAO-B by these complexes was time-dependent and fully reversible after dilution and sedimentation. In vitro, the cadmium ethanolamine complexes were more potent at inhibiting MAO-B than the zinc complexes. The inhibitory effect of these complexes follow the order: TEA>DEA>MEA, due to the alkyl residues and steric effect properties. The inhibition of MAO-B by cadmium and zinc ethanolamine complexes was a noncompetitive type. The K(i) values were calculated. The influence of the complexes on the activity of MAO-B was rather evaluated. It decreased the MAO-B activity. The IC(50) values of the two potent cadmium and zinc triethanolamine complexes on MAO-B were evaluated indicating that the complexes were tightly binding, but reversible inhibitors for MAO-B. In general, these systems may be used for preventing some neurodegenerative diseases.