What Is A TCA?Discover The Risks And Benefits
Tricyclic antidepressants or TCAs are among the first antidepressant medications. Their chemical structure has three rings so they are also known as tricyclics. TCAs are not used much for depression any more since other medications are more effective with fewer side effects. Instead, tricyclic antidepressants are used for anxiety, panic attacks, Tourette’s syndrome, tics, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and enuresis (bed-wetting). Individuals with autism often have these conditions as well. Reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin is inhibited by TCAs. Therefore, these neurotransmitters build up in the synapses of neurons and improve communication. There are many types of these medications. The more common types are listed below.
Deficiencies of B vitamins and coQ-10 can occur when taking these medications. Therefore, good vitamin B complex and coQ-10 supplements are important. Your physician should obtain an electrocardiogram from you before beginning treatment and then periodically thereafter. Heart arrhythmias are a serious and sometime fatal consequence of TCAs. More common side effects include sedation, headaches, weight gain, dry mouth, gastrointestinal disturbances, and blurred vision. Seizures, cardiovascular complications and liver inflammation are examples of rare side effects. Overdoses can be fatal due to cardiac rhythm abnormalities. Please discuss these medications with your physician and pharmacist if you have further questions.
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