Which statement about monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is true?

The correct answer highlights an important safety consideration when using monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). MAOIs inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. When taken alongside meperidine, which is an opioid analgesic, the risk of serotonin syndrome significantly increases due to the MAOI's effect on serotonin levels. This potentially life-threatening condition arises from excessive serotonergic activity and can manifest as agitation, confusion, hypertension, and even coma.

Choosing not to administer meperidine in patients on MAOIs is crucial to mitigate this risk. Understanding this interaction underscores the importance of careful medication management in patients receiving MAOIs, as they require vigilant monitoring for contraindicated medication combinations.

In contrast, the other statements present misconceptions. While MAOIs can lead to orthostatic hypotension as a side effect, a washout period is not limited to just three days when transitioning from MAOIs to SSRIs; a longer duration is typically required. Lastly, while dietary restrictions concerning tyramine are a critical aspect of MAOI therapy to prevent hypertensive crises, not all MAOIs have the same dietary restrictions, making the claim overly broad. These