What class of drugs can cause a 'cheese effect' when taken with aged cheeses?

The 'cheese effect' is a significant interaction that specifically occurs with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). This phenomenon arises because MAOIs inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down tyramine, a naturally occurring compound found in certain aged and fermented foods, including aged cheeses. When people taking MAOIs consume foods that are high in tyramine, such as aged cheeses, it can lead to excessive levels of tyramine in the bloodstream. This excessive increase can then trigger severe hypertensive crises, characterized by spikes in blood pressure, which can be life-threatening.

In contrast, tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and antipsychotics do not have this specific interaction with tyramine-containing foods. While they may interact with other substances or have their own side effects, they do not cause the 'cheese effect' associated with MAOIs. Recognizing this interaction is crucial for patient safety and highlights the need for dietary restrictions while on MAOIs.