Part of the reason that tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have fallen somewhat out of favor compared with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is because:
A) SSRIs have the added advantage of also blocking norepinephrine and dopamine.
B) TCA overdoses have a cardiotoxic effect.
C) SSRIs have the added advantage of also blocking histamine and acetylcholine.
D) TCA overdoses often create a hypertensive crisis in patients.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

TCA overdoses can lead to a cardiotoxic effect and can be fatal, whereas SSRIs have a lower risk of toxicity in overdose situations. While SSRIs do block serotonin reuptake, they do not necessarily have an advantage over TCAs in blocking other neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine. Additionally, while some SSRIs may have antihistamine and anticholinergic effects, these are not necessarily advantages over TCAs.

Part of the Reason That Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) Have Fallen