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I think there is some confusion about problems with selegeline (Deprenyl or Eldepryl) because they are arising from two very different sources. On the one hand, there is the controversy over the effect of the drug itself on individual patients, and about the dangers involved with its interaction with other drugs. The other problem is related to dietary restrictions that may be needed under certain circumstances. selegeline is a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor, Type-B (MAOI-B). Monoamine oxidases (MAO) are chemical catalysts found within body cells, particularly in the gut, the liver, the kidneys, and the brain. Type-A MAOs are found mostly in the gut and liver, while Type B is concentrated in the brain. These MAOs perform a vital function, that of rendering harmless the potentially toxic amines that are found in certain foods and beverages. Amines are formed from amino acids under certain conditions, aging of cheese, fermentation of wines, smoking, pickling, etc. Or, as one source inelegantly puts it, when protein putrifies." Well-aged cheeses, especially strong and smelly, wines like chianti and sherry, some beers and ales, herring, liver, and chocolate (sob!) are often sources of amines. In other words, all sorts of good things that sophisticated tase buds have learned to cherish. If MAOs in the cells of the gut are inhibited, and are not available to oxidize amines, they enter the blood unchanged, and can precipitate a severe hypertensive reaction that can be life threatening. Many of the alarming reactions that have been described in recent messages describe these symptoms. Since selegeline is a Type-B inhibitor of MAO, it does not inhibit the action of the Type-A variety in the gut. That means it usually does not require the careful dietary restrictions that Type A drugs impose. However, according to the PDR, when the intake of selegeline is greater than 10mg/day, there may be a need to restrict these foods. (Or, I imagine, if one pigs out on Stilton and Chianti and chocolate.) So, unless one is overdosing on selegeline, or has other medical reasons to avoid favorite cheeses or beverages, they can be enjoyed in moderation. I hope I've got all this right--- corrections humbly accepted --- but be gentle. Martha