Antidepressants of the first generation are known as tricyclic or cyclic antidepressants (TCAs). They are an excellent option for those whose depression is resistant to other medications, although some may not like their adverse effects.
TCAs have been used to treat depression since they were introduced in the late 1950s. They are not often employed as a first line of therapy, however.
Existing TCAs
There are several cyclic antidepressants on the market right now, including:
- amitriptyline
- amoxapine
- Norpramin, or desipramine
- doxepin
- Tofranil, or imipramine
- maprotiline
- Pamelor (nortriptyline)
- vivacity (protriptyline)
- (Surmontil) trimipramine
In an off-label application, certain physicians may also recommend the cyclic medication clomipramine (Anafranil) to treat depression.
How they operate
Tricyclic antidepressants are often only prescribed by doctors after other medications have failed to treat depression. Tricyclic antidepressants assist in maintaining higher levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain. Your body naturally produces these compounds, which impact your mood. Tricyclic antidepressants can lift your mood by preserving more of them for your brain.
Tricyclic antidepressants are sometimes used off-label to treat various illnesses. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and persistent bedwetting are examples of these disorders.
Cyclical antidepressants are used to relieve chronic pain and to prevent migraines at smaller dosages. They are occasionally used to assist those who are suffering from panic disorder.
Tricyclic antidepressants are used to treat depression, but they can have negative health implications. They may interfere with the body’s natural muscular movements related to digestion and secretion. The molecule histamine, which is present throughout your body, is also blocked by them. Drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation, and glaucoma are a few side effects of histamine blocking. These might explain some of the more problematic side effects of these medications.
Negative effects
Compared to other antidepressants, tricyclic antidepressants are more likely to result in constipation, weight gain, and drowsiness. However, the effects of various medications vary. Tell your doctor if one tricyclic antidepressant is giving you a bothersome side effect. A change to a different cyclic antidepressant may be beneficial.
The following are potential adverse effects of tricyclic antidepressants:
- mouth ache
- wet eyes
- fuzzy vision
- dizziness
- fatigue
- headache
- disorientation
- seizure (particularly after using maprotiline)
- drowsiness
- constipation
- urinary incontinence
- improper sexual behaviour
- reduced blood pressure
- weight increase, particularly while on doxepin, imipramine, and amitriptyline
- nausea
Interactions
Regular drinkers should avoid tricyclic antidepressants. The antidepressant effect of these medications is lessened by alcohol. Additionally, it amplifies their sedative effects.
If you use tricyclic antidepressant with certain drugs, such as epinephrine (Epi-Pen) and cimetidine (Tagamet), you risk experiencing adverse side effects. Tricyclic antidepressants may intensify the heart-damaging effects of adrenaline. High blood pressure and irregular heartbeats may result from this. Tricyclic antidepressant levels may rise in your body due to cimetidine, increasing the likelihood of adverse effects.
Tricyclic antidepressants’ may potentially interact with other medicines and substances. You must let your doctor know about any medications and substances you use. You may prevent any interactions with the aid of your doctor.
Regarding usage with other ailments
Some problems may get worse as a result of these medications. Tricyclic antidepressants should be avoided by those who have the following conditions:
- glaucoma with angle closure
- increased prostate
- urinary incontinence
- heart issues
- thyroid issues
People with diabetes who use tricyclic antidepressant may need to monitor their blood sugar levels more regularly. Tricyclic antidepressants also alter blood sugar levels.
Before using tricyclic antidepressants, pregnant or nursing women should see their doctor. The doctor will assist in balancing the advantages of taking these medications against any potential hazards to the mother or baby.
Consult your physician.
Tricyclic antidepressants’ work, but not everyone should take them. They won’t likely be the first antidepressant your doctor prescribes for you to take. This is primarily because of the possibility of negative repercussions.
Discuss any adverse effects you experience with your doctor if these medications are provided. Before modifying your dose or terminating therapy with these medications, you should inform your doctor if you feel you can’t handle the adverse effects. Tricyclic antidepressant treatment should never be abruptly stopped because:
- nausea
- headache
- dizziness
- lethargy
- flu-like signs
To prevent these side effects, your doctor will gradually reduce your dose.