Patients taking MAOIs must avoid which of the following to prevent a hypertensive crisis?

Patients taking MAOIs, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, must avoid foods containing tyramine to prevent a hypertensive crisis. Tyramine is an amino acid that helps regulate blood pressure, and it is normally broken down by the monoamine oxidase enzyme. When someone is on MAOIs, this enzyme is inhibited, leading to an accumulation of tyramine in the body.

When tyramine levels rise significantly due to the consumption of tyramine-rich foods, it can cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure, potentially leading to a hypertensive crisis. Foods that are typically high in tyramine include aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented products, and certain types of alcoholic beverages, among others. Understanding the role of tyramine and its implications for patients on MAOIs is crucial for safe dietary choices and overall health management.