Posted by SLS on March 20, 2001, at 13:37:50
In reply to Re: Mood stabilizer only for depression? to Scott, posted by Margit on March 20, 2001, at 9:43:29
Dear Margit,
I have taken:imipramine (Tofranil) - 300mg (450mg briefly)
desipramine (Norpramin) - 300mg
nortriptyline (Pamelor) - 100mg - I am currently titrating this drug.
amitriptyline (Elavil) - ?mg
protriptyline (Vivactil) - ?mgThese drugs have at least three properties that will cause the heart to beat faster. They raise levels of noradrenergic activity (NE) and reduce the level of cholinergic activity (ACh). In addition, tricyclics block a certain receptor known as the NE alpha-1. This is why you may become temporarily dizzy when you stand up. This is called orthostatic hypotension. Along with this temporary drop in blood pressure comes the heart's attempt to compensate for it by temporarily beating faster. Although tricyclic antidepressants increase heart rate, they do not raise blood pressure. You may also experience a feeling of heart palpitations, especially early in therapy. This too is usually nothing to worry about.
I am glad you are taking the time to investigate this stuff before making a decision. I know how easy it is to get scared by the new and strange feelings that sometimes occur at the beginning of drug treatment.
Tricyclics are very strong antidepressants, and can be combined with drugs like lithium, Wellbutrin, Prozac and the other SSRIs. They can even be combined with MAO inhibitors when rarely necessary.
Good luck.
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:56899
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010319/msgs/56992.html