Three classes of antidepressants are generally used in the treatment of major depression: tricyclic antidepressants (TCIs, such as imipramine), selective sertotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs, such as fluoxetine), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs, such as Parnate, Nardil [phenelzine], Marplan, Furoxone, Matulane, Eutonyl, Eutron).
The MAOIs block the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase. Tyramine, a substance found in some foods, normally undergo conversion in the body to an inactive form through the action of monoamine oxidase. When MAO inhibitors are given, tyramine remains active and causes the release of norepinephrine. Headaches, severe hypertension, or a hypertensive crisis may ensue.
Foods high in tyramine should be avoided while on MAOI therapy. Avoid foods that are aged, fermented, or improperly stored. Foods with moderate or low tyramine content should be used in limited amounts (1/2 cup or 4 oz or less). Continue the diet four weeks beyond the cessation of drug therapy.
| Foods Very
High in Tyramine Cheese, aged Boursalt Camembert Cheddar Stilton Yeast extracts |
Foods High
in Tyramine Bologna Dried. salted, or pickled cod Dried, salted, or pickled herring Pepperoni Salami |
| Foods Moderately
High in Tyramine Cheeses Blue Brick natural Brie Gruyere Mozzarella Parmesan Romano Roquefort Chianti wine Meat tenderizers |
Foods Containing Moderate
Amounts of Tyramine
|
| Foods Low
in Tyramine Ale Avocados Bananas Beer Cheeses American, processed Cottage Cream Ricotta Figs Sherry Sour cream White wine |
