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MAOI Contraindications
Alfred Savinelli
sagespirit@aol.com
Ayahuasca and its analogs are aqueous solutions, traditionally made in the, Amazon from the vine of Banisteriopsis and the leaves of Psychotria viridis. The orally inactive tryptamines are orally activated in the presence of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) extracted from the Banisteriopsis vine. The mechanism of MAOI can be used to potentiate most classes of tryptamines as well as many other classes of drugs. There is current worldwide interest in Ayahuasca for entheogenic exploration. Moreover, its analysis as a natural MAOI has caused attention to be directed towards the more potent, synthetic MAOIs.(1) We aim to reduce harm and promote safety by expounding on potential contraindications of MAOIs with foods and pharmaceuticals. The prescription of MAOI antidepressants in the medical profession has led to a detailed review of common medications, drugs of abuse, and foods to avoid.(2,3) Entheogenic tryptamines are orally activated by MAOI's inhibition of the enzyme monoamine oxidase in the gut. However, there are adverse drug interactions secondary to MAOI intake (Table 1). Of particular note, using MAOI's within five weeks of discontinuing the serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine (Prozac) could lead to coma and death.(4) Discontinuation of the other SSRI antidepressants also require a two to three week washout prior to MAOI intake. The goal of a dietary regimen compatible with the use of MAOI's is to avoid tyramine-containing foods which in general are fermented, desiccated, aged, or overripe (Table 2). Foods not listed in Table 2 could be of danger as well: when not fresh, tyrosine and other aromatic amino acids naturally present are degraded by bacteria with tyramine as a resultant byproduct. Tyramine stimulates the release of norepinephrine in the bloodstream and its absorption is blocked by MAOI. Sufficient exposure can therefore cause a norepinephrine surge resulting in hypertension. Symptoms include nausea, occipital headache, and even intracranial hemorrhage. Increased norepinephrine release is also compounded by stimulants, including amphetamines and other amines. Due to the amphetamine properties of the phenethylamine entheogens, mescaline and MDMA ("Ecstasy"), a hypertensive crisis could ensue as a result of their combination with an MAOI. Such an interaction has been reported in the literature.(5) Contraindications to the use of MAOIs include severe liver and kidney impairment, severe or frequent headache, uncontrolled hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and cerebrovascular diseases.(6) Of course, those with psychiatric preconditions, especially prior psychotic breaks, should avoid entheogens, except when mediated by a professional. Those considering self-induced exploration should be aware of its complications and make an informed decision. The restrictions here delineated are not meant to be all-encompassing but, rather, are meant to provide general guidelines. Further questions should be directed to your physician. Table 1. Contraindicated Drugs (Partial list): amphetamines, cocaine, MDMA, opiates, barbiturates, deconjestants & allergy medications, cold medications, diet pills, methylphenidate, asthma inhalers, meperidine, levodopa, dopamine, carbamazapine, certain antihypertensive medications, sympathomimetic amines (direct & indirect acting) including psuedoephedrine & ephidrine. Table 2. Contraindicated Foods cheese, L-tyrosine, liver, broad beans, dry sausage, beer & ale, chocolate, sauerkraut, ripe avocado yeast extracts, caffeine, raspberry jam, certain nuts, dried fruit, banana peel, soy bean products, vermouth, cognac, sherry, chianti, smoked meat, poultry & fish, protein dietary supplements, meat extracts & tenderizers Response to this letter in a later issue of MAPS References
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