**Linezolid** (often known by the brand name Zyvox) is a powerful antibiotic, but it also acts as a weak "MAO inhibitor." This means it can interact with a substance called **tyramine**, which is found in many aged, fermented, or pickled foods. Eating high-tyramine foods while taking Linezolid can cause a sudden, dangerous increase in blood pressure. Generally, the rule of thumb is to stick to **fresh** foods and avoid anything that has been aged or processed to develop flavor. ### 🚫 Foods to Avoid (High Tyramine) These foods should be strictly avoided until she finishes her course of medication: - **Aged Cheeses:** Cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, blue cheese, Gorgonzola, Camembert, and Brie. - **Processed or Aged Meats:** Salami, pepperoni, mortadella, summer sausage, hot dogs, and any meat that has been cured, smoked, or pickled. - **Fermented Soy Products:** Soy sauce, miso, tofu, and tempeh. - **Pickled/Fermented Vegetables:** Sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles. - **Certain Fruits:** Overripe bananas (skin turning black), avocados (especially if overripe), and dried fruits like raisins or prunes. - **Yeast Extracts:** Such as Marmite or certain bouillon bases. --- ### ✅ Safe Foods (Low Tyramine) Freshness is key here. As long as the food is fresh and prepared recently, it is generally safe: - **Fresh Dairy:** Milk, cottage cheese, ricotta, cream cheese, and yogurt. - **Fresh Meats & Fish:** Chicken, turkey, beef, or pork, provided it is cooked fresh and not stored as leftovers for a long time. - **Fresh Vegetables:** Most vegetables are safe, including potatoes, carrots, and leafy greens (just avoid them if they are pickled or fermented). - **Grains:** Bread, pasta, rice, and cereal. - **Most Fruits:** Apples, citrus, and berries. - **Eggs:** Any style, as long as they are fresh. --- ### ⚠️ Important Safety Signs If your grandmother accidentally eats something high in tyramine, watch for these "hypertensive crisis" symptoms: 1. A sudden, severe headache (often described as "throbbing"). 2. Nausea and vomiting. 3. Chest pain or a rapid heartbeat. 4. Sweating and stiff neck.