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Side Effects of Tricyclic Antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) like Elavil and Desyrel are used to treat depression. Side effects range from dry mouth and slow digestion to blurred vision, low blood pressure, headaches, fatigue, nausea, and confusion.

  1. Decrease in Popularity

    • TCAs were once the first choice of drugs for major depression, but their many side effects have led to a decrease in use since they were first introduced over 50 years ago. Still, they can be very effective for depression. They also work well for insomnia and panic disorder.

    Bladder Problems

    • You may have difficulty emptying your bladder completely, especially if you are an older man with an enlarged prostate.

    Drowsiness

    • Drowsiness is usually short-lived, but you should not drive or use heavy machinery after taking TCAs. Do not take them with alcohol. This will increase the sedative effect.

    Increased Pulse Rate

    • If you are older, your doctor may order an EKG to check your heart function. TCAs are less likely to decrease sexual function, but they often slow digestion, making constipation a common problem.

    Availability of Information

    • Since TCAs have been used for over 40 years, there is more information about them than any other class of antidepressants. They have been well-studied in terms of safety and efficacy.

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