Side effects of the tricyclics and tetracyclics

Below are the most common side effects of tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants, along with suggestions for dealing with them:

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Dry mouth: It is helpful to drink sips of water, chew sugarless gum, and brush teeth several times a day.

Constipation: Bran cereals, prunes and other fruits, and vegetables should be in the diet.

Bladder problems: Emptying the bladder may be troublesome, and the urine stream may not be as strong as it has been before. The doctor should be notified if there is marked difficulty or pain with urination.

Weight gain: Careful attention to both diet and exercise is important because weight gain often occurs.

Sexual problems: Sexual functioning may change. If worrisome, it should be discussed with the doctor.

Blurred vision: This should pass quite quickly.

Dizziness: Rising from the bed or chair more slowly is helpful.

Drowsiness during the daytime: This usually passes quite quickly. A person feeling drowsy or sedated should not drive or operate heavy equipment. The more sedating antidepressants are usually taken at bedtime to help sleep and minimize daytime problems.

Tachycardia: In rare cases, these medicines can cause unpredictable, rapid beating of the heart, which is known as tachycardia. While not fatal, this requires attention by the doctor and can usually be alleviated by adjusting the dose of the medication.