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Side effects of the MAO inhibitors
A small number of people who take the MAO inhibitors have to avoid foods and medicines that contain high levels of the amino acid tyramine. Many cheeses, wines, and pickles, as well as medications like decongestants, must be avoided because they interact with the antidepressant and can cause a sharp increase in blood pressure. This is known as a hypertensive crisis and can cause a stroke.
These medications can cause other side effects that are less serious. Below are the most common side effects of MAOIs and suggestions for how to deal with them:
Headache: This is usually temporary and passes soon. But if it persists, the doctor should be consulted.
Weight gain: Careful attention to both diet and exercise is important when on these medicines because weight gain often occurs.
Sexual problems: Sexual functioning may change; if worrisome, it should be discussed with the doctor.
Dizziness: This is the most common side effect of the drug. Reducing the dose may help, but doing so may provoke other problems. Increasing intake of water to about eight glasses a day has helped some people, as has increasing salt intake. Sometimes the use of support stockings can also alleviate the problem.
Drowsiness in the daytime: This usually passes soon. A person feeling drowsy or sedated should not drive or operate heavy equipment. The more sedating antidepressants are usually taken at bedtime to help the person sleep and to minimize daytime problems.
Insomnia: This also usually passes soon, but if it persists, an additional prescription for a sleeping aid may be required.
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