2007-01-25 03:30:15 · 4 answers · asked by D K 1 in Health ➔ Mental Health
SSRI is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Tricyclics block amine reuptake (they block both serotonin and noradrenalin). SSRIs are a new generation antidepressants drug. As it is more selective, it is less likely to get anticholinergic side effects (dry mouth, sensitivity to lights, loss of coordination etc). SSRIs are less toxic than Tricyclics so it is less dangerous in overdose.
Recap: SSRI is a just better drug!!
Note: Noradrenaline and serotonin are neurotransmitter in the brain. It's like a messenger from one brain cell to the other.
2007-01-25 03:51:27 · answer #1 · answered by ida a 1 · 3⤊ 0⤋
they work on slightly different chemicals in the brain. SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) specially increase the amount of serotonin in the brain. tricyclics increase the amounts of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. serotonin and norepinephrine are both chemicals made naturally by the body, but are found to be significantly lower in people with depression.
2007-01-25 03:39:15 · answer #2 · answered by Haiti Cherie 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
chemical makeup is different, the way they affect the brain is different. Most trycyclics will make you sleepy, SSRIs usually don't. There are many many differences actually, you need to discuss these with your doctor, or maybe even read the PDR.
2007-01-25 03:33:58 · answer #3 · answered by essentiallysolo 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
http://www.webmd.com/search/search_results/default.aspx?query=tricyclics
2007-01-25 03:35:35 · answer #4 · answered by bobweb 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋