Tricyclic antidepressants

Definition

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are a class of medications used primarily to treat depression and certain neurological conditions. They work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. TCAs can cause significant side effects, including dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, and blurred vision.
2. Commonly prescribed TCAs include amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and imipramine.
3. TCAs are sometimes used off-label for chronic pain management and migraine prevention.
4. These medications have dietary considerations; for instance, patients should avoid alcohol as it can exacerbate side effects.
5. Patients taking TCAs should be monitored for cardiovascular side effects such as arrhythmias and orthostatic hypotension.

Review Questions

• What neurotransmitters do tricyclic antidepressants primarily affect?
• Name three common tricyclic antidepressants.
• What are some dietary considerations for patients on tricyclic antidepressants?

Related terms

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): A class of drugs commonly prescribed for depression that specifically increase serotonin levels in the brain.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Another type of antidepressant that works by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine.

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): Medications used to treat depression by increasing both serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain.