What it means
An older antidepressant that blocks the enzyme that breaks down serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. It is used mostly for depression that has not responded to other drugs. Foods high in tyramine, such as aged cheese, cured meats and draft beer, can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis), and many drugs, including other antidepressants and meperidinemeh-PAIR-ih-deenA synthetic opioid pain drug, also called pethidine outside the United States.Full entry , can cause serotonin syndrome with it.
For the nurse
Teach the low-tyramine diet and to check with a pharmacist before any new drug, including cold remedies. Teach the client to report a sudden severe headache, stiff neck or a pounding heart. Allow at least 14 days between stopping it and starting another antidepressant.
At a glance
| Drug class | antidepressant (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Nardil |
| Also written | Nardil |
Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
meperidine
A synthetic opioid pain drug, also called pethidine outside the United States.
mirtazapine
An antidepressant taken at bedtime that often causes sleepiness and increased appetite.
imipramine
A tricyclic antidepressant drug, also used for bedwetting in children.