A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for an MAOI. Which of the following foods is contraindicated with this medication?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Cheese: Aged and fermented cheeses contain high levels of tyramine, which can interact with MAOIs and cause a hypertensive crisis. Clients taking MAOIs must avoid foods rich in tyramine to prevent sudden and dangerous increases in blood pressure. This dietary restriction is a critical safety consideration when prescribing these medications. B. Eggs: Eggs are low in tyramine and do not interact with MAOIs. They are safe to consume and provide a good source of protein for clients on this medication. No dietary restrictions are required regarding eggs. C. Potatoes: Potatoes are low in tyramine and do not pose a risk for hypertensive crisis when taken with MAOIs. They can be included safely in the diet of clients receiving this medication. D. Grapefruit: Grapefruit interacts with certain medications by affecting CYP450 metabolism, but it does not contain significant tyramine and is not contraindicated with MAOIs. While clients may need to avoid grapefruit with other drugs, it is not a concern specifically for MAOI therapy.