Tricyclic antidepressants are a group of drugs used to relieve symptoms of depression, bipolar or dysthymia. To treat depression, this drug will be used if the symptoms of depression do not subside even though they have received therapy with other antidepressant drugs .
Tricyclic antidepressants work by blocking the reabsorption of noepinephrine and serotonin, thereby increasing their levels in the brain. This way of working will relieve symptoms of depression and improve mood.
In addition to treating mood disorders, tricyclic antidepressants can be used in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic attacks , nerve pain, or migraines .
Precautions Before Using Tricyclic Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants should only be used as prescribed by a doctor . There are several things that need to be considered before using this drug, including:
- Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have. Tricyclic antidepressants should not be used by patients who are allergic to these drugs.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently been taking an MAOI antidepressant . Tricyclic antidepressants should not be used in these patients.
- Tell your doctor if you have recently had a heart attack . Tricyclic antidepressants should not be used in this condition.
- Tell your doctor if you have or currently have glaucoma , liver disease, coronary heart disease , kidney disease, seizures , heart rhythm disturbances, pheochromocytoma , thyroid disease, enlarged prostate , or diabetes.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including certain supplements and herbal products.
- Do not drive a vehicle or do activities that require alertness, after using tricyclic antidepressants, as these drugs can cause dizziness and drowsiness.
- Tell your doctor that you are taking tricyclic antidepressants before having any medical procedure, including dental work or surgery.
- Immediately consult a doctor if you experience a drug allergic reaction or overdose after using tricyclic antidepressants.
Tricyclic Antidepressant Side Effects
The side effects of tricyclic antidepressants can vary, depending on the type of drug. However, in general, there are several side effects that can occur after using tricyclic antidepressants, namely:
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Headache, dizziness, or drowsiness
- Appetite increases
- Urinary retention
- Weight gain or loss
- Decreased sexual desire
- Low blood pressure ( hytension )
- Tremors or excessive sweating
Immediately consult a doctor if the side effects mentioned above do not subside or get worse. You should also see a doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction to a drug or have thoughts of suicide after using tricyclic antidepressants.
Types, Trademarks and Dosage of Tricyclic Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants in Indonesia are available in the form of tablets and creams. The following are the types of drugs that are included in the tricyclic antidepressant drug class, along with the trademark and dosage:
1. Amitriptyline
Trademarks: Amitriptyline, Amitriptyline Hydrochloride
To find out the dosage and more information about this drug, please visit the amitriptyline drug page .
2. Clomipramine
Trademark: Anafranil
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the clomipramine drug page .
3. Doxepin
Trademark: Sagalon
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the doxepine drug page .
4. Maprotiline
Trademarks: Maprotiline HCl, Tilsan 25, Sandepril
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the maprotiline drug page .
5. Imipramine
imipramine trademark : Tofranil
In general, the dose of imipramine to treat depression is as follows:
- Adult: The initial dose is 75 mg per day in divided doses or as a single dose given at bedtime. The dose can be increased gradually to 150–200 mg per day if needed.
- Elderly: Initial dose is 10 mg per day. Dosage may be increased gradually to 30–50 mg per day if needed.