What digestive enzyme interacts with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)?

The interaction of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) with specific compounds is crucial for understanding their safe use in medication management. Tyramine is the correct answer because it is an amino acid derivative that naturally occurs in certain foods and can significantly affect blood pressure when consumed while taking MAOIs.

MAOIs work by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which is responsible for breaking down monoamines, including neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, as well as dietary amines such as tyramine. When a person taking MAOIs consumes foods high in tyramine (like aged cheeses, cured meats, and fermented products), the tyramine levels in the body can become elevated. This can lead to a hypertensive crisis due to increased norepinephrine release, as the action of MAO on tyramine is inhibited.

Understanding this interaction is vital, as patients on MAOIs must adhere to dietary restrictions to avoid severe side effects. This is why tyramine is specifically highlighted in relation to MAOIs.