Phenelzine and Tyramine: Drug Interaction Guide
Quick answer: This is a major interaction — avoid combining Phenelzine and Tyramine unless specifically directed by your doctor.
How Phenelzine interacts with Tyramine
Phenelzine irreversibly inhibits MAO-A in the gut and liver, preventing the breakdown of dietary tyramine, which then releases stored noradrenaline causing severe hypertensive crisis.
What you should do
Counsel patients to avoid aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented foods, and tap beer for the duration of therapy and 2 weeks after discontinuation.
Key facts
Severity
Major — avoid combination
Mechanism
Phenelzine irreversibly inhibits MAO-A in the gut and liver, preventing the breakdown of dietary tyramine, which then re...
Action
Counsel patients to avoid aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented foods, and tap beer for the duration of therapy and 2 wee...
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenelzine and Tyramine together?
No — this combination should generally be avoided. Counsel patients to avoid aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented foods, and tap beer for the duration of therapy and 2 weeks after discontinuation.
What is the severity of this interaction?
The interaction between Phenelzine and Tyramine is classified as Major — avoid combination. Phenelzine irreversibly inhibits MAO-A in the gut and liver, preventing the breakdown of dietary tyramine, which then releases stored noradrenaline causing severe hypertensive crisis.
What should I do if I'm prescribed both?
Counsel patients to avoid aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented foods, and tap beer for the duration of therapy and 2 weeks after discontinuation. Always consult your prescribing clinician — do not stop or change medications without medical guidance.
Last reviewed: by iMedic Medical Editorial Team. Our editorial process.