Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, MAOIs, are an important class of antidepressant medications. MAOIs were the first medications in this classification, and researchers continue to develop new MAOIs. If you are taking MAOI medication, you should follow some dietary precautions. Talk to your doctor about specific dietary guidelines and potential side effects.
Background
MAOIs works by keeping the enzyme monoamine oxidase from breaking down three neurotransmitters in the brain, according to the Mayo Clinic website. This allows the neurotransmitter levels to "remain high in the brain." This same effect also prevents monoamine oxidase from breaking down the amino acid tyramine. Just as the neurotransmitter levels remain high, so does the level of tyramine. Increased levels of tyramine can lead to dangerously increased blood pressure and stroke.
Considerations
Medical experts agree on a number of general points about the dietary precautions necessary if you are on MAOI therapy. However, you should talk to your prescribing physician about your specific dietary precautions when taking MAOI medication.
Features
General dietary recommendations published in the "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry" include using food that is fresh and avoiding aged cheese, aged and cured meats, Marmite yeast extract, sauerkraut, soy sauce, soy bean condiments and tap beer.
Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic site, tolerance of tyramine varies from one individual to another. Symptoms of elevated blood pressure from too much tyramine in your body can include headache, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, sweating and dilated pupils. Contact your health care provider if you notice these symptoms. When beginning MAOI therapy, discuss with your prescribing health care provider the signs and symptoms of elevated tyramine levels.
Expert Insight
Begin the MAOI dietary precautions recommended by your health care provider at the same time you begin the MAOI medication. According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, you should continue those dietary precautions for four weeks after you discontinue the medication, to allow your body time to fully eliminate the medication from your system. Consult your health care provider for her specific recommendations.
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