Abstract

PIP: The influence of the menstrual cycle on the tyramine-dose/pressor response was studied in 5 healthy women who were not taking oral contraceptives ortother medication. The dose of tyramine required to increase the systolic blood pressure (BP) by 30 mm Hg was determined. The test was performed immediately following a menstrual period (Week 1) and every week thereafter up through Week 4 (premenstrual period). Significantly systolic BP by 30 mm Hg during Weeks 1 and 4 than during the midcycle when levels of estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle stimulating hormone were at their peaks. The increased requirement was also associated with minimum platelet MAO activity. Possible reasons for the observed changes in tyramine requirement are discussed.