Tetracyclic antidepressant

Tetracyclic Antidepressant

Tetracyclic antidepressants (pronunciation: tet-ra-cy-clic an-ti-de-press-ants) are a class of antidepressants that are named for their chemical structure, which contains four rings of atoms.

Etymology

The term "tetracyclic" is derived from the Greek words "tetra," meaning four, and "kyklos," meaning circle or ring. The term "antidepressant" comes from "anti-" (against) and "depressant" (something that reduces activity or function), referring to their use in treating depression.

Usage

Tetracyclic antidepressants are used primarily in the treatment of depression, but they can also be used for other conditions such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and certain types of chronic pain.

Examples

Examples of tetracyclic antidepressants include mirtazapine (Remeron), maprotiline (Ludiomil), and amoxapine (Asendin).

Mechanism of Action

Tetracyclic antidepressants work by inhibiting the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and, to a lesser extent, dopamine. This increases the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions.

Side Effects

Common side effects of tetracyclic antidepressants can include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and weight gain. More serious side effects can include heart problems, seizures, and an increased risk of suicide, particularly in young people.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Tetracyclic antidepressant
Wikipedia's article - Tetracyclic antidepressant

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Tetracyclic antidepressant