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 (brand name Nardil), tranylcypromine (brand name Parnate), and selegiline (brand name Eldepryl). MAO inhibitors may interact with tyramine, a chemical found in many drugs, foods, and beverages. If the patient consumes 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. The patient should 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 the 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 the patient should discuss the diet with a doctor, pharmacist or dietitian if taking an MAO inhibitor.