Which of the following is a possible result of using Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)?

Using Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) can lead to a hypertensive crisis, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening increase in blood pressure. This occurs when MAOIs inhibit the breakdown of norepinephrine and other monoamines in the body, allowing for an accumulation of these substances. If a patient consumes foods or medications that are high in tyramine while on MAOIs, it can lead to excessive release of norepinephrine, resulting in a sudden spike in blood pressure, characterized by symptoms such as severe headache, palpitations, and chest pain.

This risk highlights the importance of dietary restrictions and careful monitoring for patients prescribed MAOIs. In contrast, other options such as muscle relaxation, decreased serotonin levels, and reduced receptor affinity for GABA do not accurately represent the pharmacological effects or common adverse effects associated with MAOIs. Thus, the potential for a hypertensive crisis is a critical consideration when managing patients on this class of medications.