Question

The provider suggests changing Mrs. Chen's medication to phenelzine. Mrs. Chen says to the nurse, "The provider says I will need to watch my diet if I take a new medication; but I'm not sure I want to do this. Which foods would I have to avoid?"

1) Foods high in tyramine
2) Foods high in vitamin C
3) Foods high in calcium
4) Foods high in fiber

Answer 1

Mrs. Chen should avoid foods high in tyramine if her medication is changed to phenelzine, an MAOI, as they can cause serious side effects due to interference with the enzyme that breaks down tyramine.

Step-by-step explanation:

If Mrs. Chen is prescribed phenelzine, she needs to avoid foods high in tyramine. Phenelzine is a type of medication known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is used less frequently due to potential toxicity and dangerous interactions with certain foods and other drugs. Foods rich in tyramine can cause serious side effects when consumed with MAOIs like phenelzine, because the medication inhibits the enzyme that normally breaks down tyramine in the body.

Examples of foods high in tyramine include aged cheeses, smoked or cured meats, fermented products, and some alcoholic beverages. Patients taking phenelzine should be provided with a comprehensive list of foods to avoid to ensure their safety and to optimize the efficacy of their treatment regimen.