Question
Side effects of tricyclic antidepressants include?
| A. | Diarrhea |
| B. |
Weight loss |
| C. |
Hypertension |
| D. |
Urinary Retention |
|
Correct Answer » D Explanation |
 |
Detailed Explanation:
Clinical Reasoning for the Correct Answer:
– Tricyclic antidepressants cause anticholinergic effects due to blockade of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors.
– Urinary retention results from impaired detrusor muscle contraction caused by anticholinergic action.
– This side effect is common especially in elderly patients or those with underlying benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Why Option A is Incorrect (Diarrhea):
– TCAs typically cause constipation due to anticholinergic effects, not diarrhea.
– Diarrhea is not a common side effect of TCAs, but rather may be caused by cholinergic excess or other drugs like SSRIs.
Why Option B is Incorrect (Weight loss):
– TCAs are more commonly associated with weight gain due to antihistaminergic and antiserotonergic effects.
– Weight loss is not a typical side effect; in fact, appetite often increases.
Why Option C is Incorrect (Hypertension):
– TCAs usually cause orthostatic hypotension due to alpha-1 adrenergic blockade.
– Hypertension is not a common side effect; in fact, TCAs can cause blood pressure drops rather than increases.
Common Side Effects:
– Dry mouth
– Urinary retention
– Constipation
– Orthostatic hypotension
– Sedation
– Weight gain
