Which of the following agents is related to tricyclic antidepressants?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

DSSSB Pharmacist 2014: Previous Year Paper

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Amitriptyline

Rationale:

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are a class of medications that are primarily used to treat depression and other mood disorders. They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters, and blocking the action of acetylcholine, another neurotransmitter.
Amitriptyline is a well-known TCA. It is commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and certain types of chronic pain. Amitriptyline works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, thereby increasing their levels in the brain.

Explanation of Other Options:

Nefazodone

Rationale: Nefazodone is not a tricyclic antidepressant. It is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). It works differently by blocking serotonin receptors and inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin.

Fluoxetine

Rationale: Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It primarily inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, thereby increasing its levels in the brain. It is not a tricyclic antidepressant.

Isocarboxazid

Rationale: Isocarboxazid is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which works by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. It is not a tricyclic antidepressant.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, Amitriptyline is the tricyclic antidepressant. TCAs like Amitriptyline are known for their effectiveness in treating depression but also have a higher risk of side effects compared to newer classes of antidepressants.

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