Norm is told by his psychiatrist, "I'm giving you this drug to elevate your mood, but you must be sure not to eat such cheeses, wines, and other foods that might have tyramine in them.The interaction between the drug and tyramine can have dangerous consequences." What drug is Norm probably taking?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

MAO inhibitors can interact with tyramine containing foods, leading to a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure called hypertensive crisis. This is because MAO inhibitors block the action of an enzyme that normally breaks down tyramine in the body, leading to excessive levels of tyramine. Reserpine and tricyclic medications can also interact with tyramine, but the warning about avoiding tyramine is most commonly associated with MAO inhibitors. Lithium does not interact with tyramine.

Norm Is Told by His Psychiatrist, "I'm Giving You This