Fatal malignant hyperthermia as a result of ingestion of tranylcypromine (Parnate) combined with white wine and cheese.

Fatal malignant hyperthermia occurred in a patient who was taking tranylcypromine (Parnate) and ingested wine and cheese. The case findings are presented along with a review of the literature concerning adverse interactions between monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors and certain foods and beverages. Hyperthermia and its possible causative mechanisms and treatments are discussed. The facts suggest that the complicated dietary restrictions attending the use of MAO inhibitors and the possibility of severe and even catastrophic reactions resulting from violations of these restrictions make the use of these drugs fraught with danger and therefore not a first choice for the treatment of depression.