However, MAOIs can be a good option for people who have not had luck with other medications.
Tyramineis a compound that affects your blood pressure.
It’s regulated and broken down by the MAO enzyme.
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MAOIs restrict the MAO enzyme to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
However, if the MAO enzyme is inhibited, tyramine can reach dangerously high levels in your body.
Elevated tyramine can cause your blood vessels to narrow, possibly leading to critically high blood pressure.
You will need to avoid foods high in tyramine while you are taking an MAOI.
You will also need to continue to avoid them for 24 weeks after you stop taking an MAOI.
Foods to Avoid with MAOIs
Tyramine is found in certain foods, beverages, and other substances.
Protein-rich foods, for example, typically contain high amounts of tyramine.
Bouillon cubes or broth made with meat extracts.
FISH:Caviar, cured fish, dried or pickled herring, and anything that contains shrimp paste.
ALCOHOL:Certain fermented alcoholic beverages including red wines and Chianti, vermouth, and sherry.
Beer that contains yeast (particularly home-brewed or tap beer).
YEASTS:Homemade yeast bread, sourdough bread.
PICKLED OR FERMENTED PRODUCTS:Kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles, kefir, tofu, tempeh, kombucha.
Here are some food safety tips to keep in mind while you are taking an MAOI.
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