Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Diets

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) are antidepressant medications, such as Marplan, Nardil, Zelapar and Azilect. Mayo Clinic notes that while taking MAOIs certain foods and drinks can result in serious reactions. In particular sudden high blood pressure is a dangerous risk. Other reactions may include nausea, headache, sweating and facial flushing. Therefore, your diet becomes important while using this type of medication.

Tyramine

• According to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), tyramine is a breakdown component of protein amino acids that acts as a circulation stimulant. Leftover high protein foods are likely to form tyramine as they age. Foods containing tyramine can cause a serious reaction when taking MAOIs. Foods with high levels of tyramine include aged cheeses, such as brie, cheddar and blue cheese, yeast, fermented meats, sauerkraut, pickled meat, fish or poultry, fava bean pods and overly ripened fruits.

Beverages

• Alcoholic beverages must be entirely avoided. This list includes beer, sherry, wine, hard liquor and liqueurs. Even alcohol-free or alcohol-reduced beer is prohibited while taking MAOIs. DHMC indicates that a maximum of 1 cup of a caffeinated beverage is allowed per day, including coffee, colas, tea and hot chocolate. All other beverages are permitted.

Meats

• Along with fermented meats such as frankfurters, pepperoni and summer sausage, beef jerky, bologna, canned meats, chicken or beef livers, caviar and tofu are excluded on a low tyramine diet. Fresh meats, fish and poultry are permitted as well as bacon and ham.

Fresh Foods

• Drugs.com emphasizes the importance of selecting and cooking fresh foods on a low tyramine diet. Fresh yogurt, milk and ice cream are allowed, as are fresh eggs. Up to 1 oz. of American cheese may be consumed as many as three times a week. Ricotta, cottage and cream cheeses are also permitted. Most fresh vegetables, as well as all fruits and juices, are also acceptable.

Caution

• Some foods should be eaten in moderation and with caution while taking MAOIs. These include sour cream, peanuts, chocolate and game meat. DHMC recommends watching for adverse effects when eating these foods during MAOI treatment.

Considerations

• DHMC notes that this diet should be followed one week before beginning to take an MAOI and for one week after the MAOI is discontinued. Drugs.com indicates it should be continued for two to three weeks following treatment. To prevent serious health issues, patients should consult their health care provider for a complete list of allowed and nonallowed foods and the length of time to follow the diet.