monoamine oxidase inhibitors and alcohol
Last reviewed 01/2018
Irreversible monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may precipitate serious hypertensive reactions if foodstuffs containing the sympathomimetic tyramine are consumed. This is because tyramine is usually metabolised by monoamine oxidase in the body; but this is not possible if a patient is taking a MAOI.
The classical alcoholic bevarage associated with this reaction is red wine. However many other wines and beers (including 'alcohol-free' beers) may contain tyramine.