A client with major depressive disorder is placed on phenelzine 15 mg BID.

Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used to treat major depressive disorder. Patients taking MAOIs must avoid foods high in tyramine to prevent hypertensive crises. Parmesan cheese, beef liver, and raisins are high in tyramine and should be avoided. Garlic, fish, egg yolks, milk, peanuts, tomatoes, black beans, and pears do not typically contain high levels of tyramine and are generally safe to consume while taking MAOIs. The dietary restrictions are crucial to preventing dangerous interactions and maintaining patient safety.