Phenelzine and other MAOI users warned over tyramine in some beans.

A pharmacy expert reported that MAOI antidepressants such as phenelzine, isocarboxazid and tranylcypromine can interact with tyramine-rich foods like soybeans and broad (fava) beans and potentially raise blood pressure; the expert also noted beans are nutritious and said people should check with a healthcare professional before changing their diet.

A pharmacy lecturer has issued a warning about interactions between certain monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressants and some beans. The expert reported that phenelzine, isocarboxazid and tranylcypromine can interact with tyramine found in foods such as soybeans and broad (fava) beans. The interaction was described as potentially causing a dangerous rise in blood pressure while beans remain a nutritious food. Key facts: - The warning was reported by Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice at Kingston University, in a piece for The Conversation. - MAOI antidepressants named include phenelzine, isocarboxazid and tranylcypromine; these drugs block enzymes that normally break down tyramine. - Tyramine-rich foods cited include soybeans, broad (fava) beans and snow peas, and elevated tyramine was reported as potentially leading to a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Summary: The reported impact is that people taking MAOI antidepressants could experience raised blood pressure if they consume tyramine-rich beans. The expert reported that individuals should check with a doctor or pharmacist before making major dietary changes; next steps are undetermined at this time.