 Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors are a class of drugs used for depression and Parkinson's Disease. Examples of MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid (brand name Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), and selegiline (Eldepryl). MAO inhibitors may interact with tyramine, a chemical found in many drugs, foods, and beverages. If you consume foods or alcoholic drinks containing tyramine, a rapid and potentially life-threatening rise in blood pressure can occur. Given the seriousness of this interaction, it's crucial to be aware of foods and drinks that may interact with MAO inhibitors. The possibility of an interaction between MAO inhibitors and foods varies depending on the amount of tyramine present. Avoid foods and drinks high in tyramine during therapy and for four weeks after stopping any MAO inhibitor. Foods and drinks high in tyramine include: smoked, aged, or pickled meat or fish; sauerkraut; aged cheeses (e.g., swiss, cheddar, blue, boursault, camembert, emmenthaler, stilton); yeast extracts; fava beans; beef or chicken liver; aged sausages (e.g., bologna, pepperoni, salami, summer sausage); game meats (e.g., venison, rabbit); and red wines (e.g., chianti, sherry). Foods with moderate amounts of tyramine can be eaten in moderation during MAO inhibitor therapy, as determined by your physician. These foods and drinks include beer, white wine, hard liquor, avocados, and meat extracts. Foods and drinks low in tyramine may be consumed within reason, but never in excess. They include caffeine-containing beverages, chocolate, soy sauce, cottage cheese, cream cheese, yogurt, and sour cream. This isn't a complete list, so make sure to discuss your diet with your doctor, pharmacist or dietician if you are taking an MAO inhibitor. Sources:
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.
Applied Therapeutics: The Clinical Use of Drugs. Applied Therapeutics, 1995.
The American Psychiatric Press Textbook of Psychopharmacology. American Psychiatric Press Inc., 1998.
This answer prepared 5/24/2000.
This information updated 12/5/2006.
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