Given the complexity of depressive disorders, various theories are an attempt to explain the etiology of the depressive moods. In nowadays we tend to point out the chemical imbalance in the brain. Reduction of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine are proved to be responsible for the symptom criteria of depression referring to monoamine theory (Preston et al., 2013, p. 86). Thus, the treatment target this dysregulation of mood using antidepressant medication. Most antidepressants are equally effective in lowering or increasing the level these neurotransmitters in the brain. However, to reach a positive outcome from the psychopharmacology treatment to depression, the prescriber should consider, the symptoms, the possible side effects, interaction with other medication, other health problems, the dose, etc. (Preston et al., 2013). Choices are various when talking about an antidepressant. Type of antidepressant are Tricyclic (TCAs) (e.g., Amitriptyline, Norpramin, Trazodone, Tofranil, etc.). Tricyclic are known to be “dirty” medication (Preston et al., 2013, p. 174) because while they operate they do not target specific receptors responsible for the symptomology instead, they affect many receptors …show more content…
This class of antidepressant and their toxicity are the sources of unpleasant side effects such as seizures, insomnia, anxiety, sweating, cardiac arrhythmia, hypertension, weight loss, constipation, and sexual