Tricyclic Antidepressant

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) are a class of antidepressant medications that share a similar chemical structure and biological effects. Scientists believe that patients with depression may have an imbalance in neurotransmitters, chemicals that nerves make and use to communicate with other nerves. Tricyclic antidepressants increase levels of norepinephrine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters, and block the action of acetylcholine, another neurotransmitter. Scientists believe that by restoring the balance in these neurotransmitters in the brain that Tricyclic antidepressants alleviate depression. In addition to relieving depression, Tricyclic antidepressants also cause sedation and block the action of histamine.

Tricyclic Antidepressants are used in Administration (FDA) for treating several types of depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and bedwetting.

In addition, they are also used for several off-label (non-FDA approved) uses such as:

• panic disorder,
• bulimia
• chronic pain (for example, migraine, tension headaches, diabetic neuropathy, and post herpetic neuralgia),
• phantom limb pain,
• chronic itching, and premenstrual symptoms.