Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

Overview

• Presenter: Cathy from Level Up RN
• Topic: MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
• Target Audience: Nursing students
• Key Points:
  • Importance of MAOIs in nursing school exams
  • Medications: Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine, Isocarboxazid, Selegiline

Mechanism of Action

• Function: Inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase
  • Leads to increased levels of neurotransmitters: Norepinephrine, Serotonin, Dopamine

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects:
  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Orthostatic hypotension
  • Risk for hypertensive crisis (most important)
    • Mnemonic: Use the phrase "please take it seriously" to remember the risk of hypertensive crisis with these medications

Important Patient Education

• Dietary Restrictions: Avoid foods rich in tyramines to prevent hypertensive crisis
  • Foods High in Tyramines:
    • Avocados
    • Bananas
    • Aged cheese
    • Pepperoni and salami
    • Red wine
    • Chocolate
  • Mnemonic: With phenelzine, you can't enjoy life's finer things because they contain tyramines
• Drug Interactions:
  • Interact with many other medications, including over-the-counter cold medications
  • Can lead to hypertensive crisis if interacted with inappropriate medications
• Medication Transition:
  • Two-week washout period required between stopping an MAOI and starting a new antidepressant

Quiz Questions

1. Consuming foods rich in __________ can cause a hypertensive crisis in a patient taking an MAOI.
   • Answer: Tyramines
2. Which of the following snacks is appropriate for a patient taking phenelzine?
   • A) Cheddar cheese and crackers
   • B) Chips and guacamole
   • C) Cereal with milk
   • D) Pepperoni pizza slice
   • Answer: C) Cereal with milk
3. A patient taking an MAOI can safely use a decongestant for a cold. (True/False)
   • Answer: False__