Tricyclic antidepressants (often abbreviated to TCAs) are a group of medicines that all have a similar structure and all work in a similar way. They may be used for the treatment of other conditions, not only depression.
Experts are not sure exactly how TCAs work to relieve depression. Historically, it was believed to be due to an increase in levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as norepinephrine and serotonin, but this does not appear to be the case. Norepinephrine helps with attention and modulates emotional response. Serotonin is often referred to as the “feel good hormone”. It carries messages between brain cells and contributes to well-being, good mood, and appetite, as well as helping to regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle and internal clock. TCAs may also block the actions of other neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine and histamine.
Some TCAs affect these neurotransmitters more than others which explains why some TCAs work better for conditions other than depression, such as pain, or are more likely to cause side effects such as constipation, dry mouth, and sedation.
Antidepressants is the name given to all medicines that relieve the symptoms of depression. TCAs are just one of several classes of antidepressant. Other types include norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARIs), tetracyclic antidepressants (TeCAs), and the miscellaneous antidepressants.
Tricyclic antidepressants were among the first antidepressants developed. They have largely been superseded by newer antidepressants that have less side effects, although they may still suit certain people or be effective when other antidepressants have been ineffective.
In addition to depression, TCAs may also be used to treat a range of other conditions, for example:
Some reduction in symptoms may be noticed within one to two weeks; however, it may take six to eight weeks of treatment before the full effects are seen.
Although all TCAs are thought to act in the same way, with some slight variations in their effect on certain neurotransmitters, there are differences between individual TCAs with regards to how long they remain in the body, how they are metabolized, and their propensity for interactions with other medications, and their side effects. For example, amitriptyline, doxepin, imipramine and trimipramine are more likely to cause sedation than nortriptyline and desipramine.
Amitriptyline, doxepin, and imipramine have been associated with more weight gain than some other TCAs; nortriptyline and desipramine may be better tolerated.
Some TCAs, such as amoxapine, are often listed as a TCA, but are in fact tetracyclic antidepressants.
| Generic name | Brand name examples |
|---|---|
| amitriptyline | Generic |
| amoxapine | Generic |
| clomipramine | Anafranil |
| desipramine | Norpramin |
| doxepin | Generic |
| imipramine | Tofranil |
| nortriptyline | Pamelor |
| protriptyline | Vivactil |
| trimipramine | Surmontil |
When taken at the recommended dosage, tricyclic antidepressants are considered safe. However, they have been associated with a few severe side effects, some potentially fatal, such as:
TCAs may also not be suitable for people with hyperthyroidism or receiving thyroid medications, or in those who use alcohol excessively.
Some of the more commonly reported side effects with tricyclic antidepressants include:
For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the individual drug monographs.
Data Source:drugs.com
Amitriptyline HCL is a medication commonly used to treat depression and certain types of chronic pain. It belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants and works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help improve mood and relieve pain. This medication is available in tablet form and is usually taken orally. It may take several weeks for the full effects of amitriptyline HCL to be felt, and it is important to follow the prescribed dosage and instructions provided by a healthcare professional.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Clomipramine is a medication used primarily to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants and works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood and behavior. Clomipramine can help reduce the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, allowing individuals with OCD to better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. It may also be prescribed for other conditions such as depression, panic disorder, and chronic pain. However, it is important to note that clomipramine may cause side effects and should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Desipramine is a medication that belongs to the class of tricyclic antidepressants. It is commonly prescribed to treat depression and certain types of anxiety disorders. Desipramine works by restoring the balance of certain chemicals in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. It may also be used to prevent migraine headaches and manage attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Desipramine is typically taken orally in the form of tablets or capsules, and the dosage is determined by a healthcare professional based on the individual's condition and response to treatment. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and not to abruptly stop taking desipramine without consulting a doctor, as this may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Common side effects of desipramine include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, dizziness, and drowsiness.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Doxepin is a medication primarily used to treat depression and anxiety. It belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants and works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help improve mood. Doxepin can also be prescribed for other conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, and certain skin conditions. It is available in various forms including tablets, capsules, and liquid. As with any medication, it is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare professional for proper use and potential side effects.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Doxepin HCL is a medication that belongs to the class of tricyclic antidepressants. It is primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Doxepin HCL works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help improve mood and reduce anxiety. It may also be prescribed for other conditions such as insomnia and chronic pain. This medication is available in tablet and liquid form and should be taken as directed by a healthcare professional. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
IMIPRAMINE HCL is a medication that belongs to the class of tricyclic antidepressants. It is commonly prescribed to treat depression, panic disorder, and bedwetting in children. IMIPRAMINE HCL works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety. It is available in tablet form and should be taken as directed by a healthcare professional.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Imipramine pamoate is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants and works by restoring the balance of certain chemicals in the brain. This medication is available in capsule form and is typically taken once daily. It may take several weeks for the full effects of imipramine pamoate to be felt. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping this medication.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Nortriptyline HCl is a medication used to treat depression. It belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants and works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances in the brain. It is commonly prescribed to alleviate symptoms of depression, such as feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Nortriptyline HCl may also be used to prevent migraine headaches and to relieve chronic pain.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Protriptyline HCl is a medication used to treat depression. It belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help improve mood. Protriptyline HCl is typically taken orally and may take a few weeks to show its full effect. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or side effects.
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
Data Source:medlineplus.gov
