Can I take Phenelzine and Tyramine together?

Perché succede

Phenelzine is a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI). It works by blocking an enzyme (MAO) that normally breaks down tyramine in your gut and liver. When this enzyme is blocked, tyramine from your food enters your bloodstream in large amounts. This causes your body to release a surge of adrenaline-like chemicals, which makes your blood vessels tighten and your blood pressure soar.

You must follow a strict 'low-tyramine' diet while taking phenelzine and for at least two weeks after stopping it. Avoid aged cheeses, yeast extracts (like Marmite), soy sauce, broad beans, pickled herrings, and cured or fermented meats (like salami). Only eat fresh foods and avoid anything that is aged, fermented, or spoiled. If you develop a sudden, severe headache, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Hypertensive crisis (dangerously high blood pressure)

You must strictly avoid foods containing tyramine (such as aged cheeses, yeast extracts like Marmite, cured meats, and draught beer) while taking phenelzine and for 14 days after stopping. Combining them can cause a life-threatening spike in blood pressure.

Serotonin syndrome and drug interactions

Do not take any other antidepressants, certain painkillers (like pethidine), or over-the-counter cough and cold remedies (containing dextromethorphan or decongestants) as these can cause a fatal reaction. Always check with a pharmacist before starting any new medicine.

Tyramine-rich foods (e.g., aged cheeses, cured meats, yeast extracts)

Phenelzine is a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI). Consuming foods high in tyramine can cause a sudden, dangerous rise in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis). You must follow a strict low-tyramine diet while taking this medicine and for two weeks after stopping it. Avoid aged cheeses (like cheddar or camembert), pickled herrings, salami, pepperoni, and Marmite. Only eat fresh foods.

Alcohol (specifically draught beers and Chianti wine)

Avoid draught beers, real ales, and certain wines like Chianti, as they contain high levels of tyramine. Most spirits and bottled lagers are lower in tyramine, but alcohol can also increase the sedative effects of phenelzine. It is safest to avoid alcohol or consult your pharmacist for a specific list of safer options.

Caffeine (Coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks)

Phenelzine can increase your sensitivity to caffeine. Consuming large amounts may lead to high blood pressure, a racing heart, or jitteriness. Limit your intake of caffeinated drinks.

Broad beans and fermented soya products

Avoid broad beans (fava beans) as they contain levodopa, which can react with phenelzine to raise blood pressure. Also avoid fermented soya products like soy sauce, miso, or tofu, which are high in tyramine.

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Avvertenza

Queste informazioni sono solo a scopo educativo generale e non devono essere considerate un sostituto del consiglio medico professionale. Consultate sempre il vostro medico di base, farmacista o un altro professionista sanitario qualificato prima di prendere decisioni sui vostri farmaci. Le circostanze individuali possono variare, e solo un professionista sanitario che conosce la vostra storia medica può fornire una guida personalizzata.