TCA Flashcards
TCA - mechanism of action
Presynaptic blockade of both noradrenaline and serotonin uptake.
As well as blocking noradrenaline and serotonin re-uptake, what other receptors do tricyclic antidepressants block?
Muscarinic
Histaminergic
α-adrenergic
What are the side effects of tricyclic antidepressants as a result of its anti-muscarinic properties?
Dry mouth
Constipation
Urinary retention
Blurred vision
What are the side effects of tricyclic antidepressants as a result of its anti-histaminergic properties?
Weight gain
Sedation
What are the side effects of tricyclic antidepressants as a result of its anti-α-adrenergic properties?
Postural hypotension
What are the cardiotoxic side effects of tricyclic antidepressants?
QT interval prolongation
ST segment elevation
Heart block arrhythmias
Name some tricyclic antidepressants.
Amitriptyline
Why are SSRIs preferred over tricylics in the treatment of depression?
SSRIs are not sedating and have fewer anti-muscarinic properties
Which patients with depression might we choose to give tricyclic antidepressants to instead of SSRIs?
Those in whom sedation would be beneficial, eg those experiencing insomnia or psychotic depression patients. SSRIs can make insomnia worse.
Main use of TCA
Treatment of neuropathic pain
Name two uses of Amitriptyline?
- management of neuropathic pain
2. prophylaxis of headache
What are the non-neurotransmitter and non-cardiac complications and side effects of tricyclic antidepressants?
Peripheral neuropathy
Gynaecomastia
SIADH
