tyramine
A scientist points to a chemical structure labeled tyramine on a classroom chart.
Noun: 1. A naturally occurring amino acid derived from tyrosine: Tyramine is a chemical compound found in various foods and beverages. It has a sympathomimetic action, meaning it can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the body's "fight or flight" response.
Tyramine is primarily discussed in medical and nutritional contexts. It is not typically used in everyday conversation but is important for understanding dietary restrictions, especially concerning certain medications. - The doctor explained that aged cheeses are high in tyramine. - Tyramine content increases as food ferments or ages.
- MAOI Interaction: The most critical advanced usage involves the interaction between tyramine and a class of antidepressants called Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs). For patients taking MAOIs, consuming tyramine-rich foods can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure, known as a hypertensive crisis.
- The warning label clearly states that tyramine-rich foods must be avoided while on this medication.
- Sympathomimetic amine: This is a broader class of compounds to which tyramine belongs. It describes substances that mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.
- 4-Hydroxyphenethylamine: This is the systematic chemical name for tyramine.
- Biogenic amine: Tyramine is categorized as a biogenic amine, a type of compound produced by the breakdown of amino acids in living organisms or during food processing.
- "Tyramine-rich foods": A common dietary term referring to items like aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented soy products, some beers, and overripe fruits, which contain significant amounts of tyramine.
A scientist points to a chemical structure labeled tyramine on a classroom chart.
- amino acid derived from tyrosine; has a sympathomimetic action; found in chocolate and cola drinks and ripe cheese and beer
- patients taking MAOIs should avoid foods containing tyramine