Tetracyclic antidepressants are similar to tricyclic antidepressants and act by inhibiting reuptake of neurotransmitters serotonin and/or noradrenaline in the brain, and elevate mood. They are effective antidepressants but are used less often now due to their side effect profile.

What does a tetracyclic antidepressant do?

Tetracyclic antidepressants are used to treat major depressive disorder with symptoms such as depressed mood, feelings of worthlessness, nervousness, trouble sleeping, loss of pleasure, low energy, and suicidal thoughts. They have become less commonly prescribed, however, with the development of newer drugs.

What is the mechanism of action of tricyclic antidepressants?

Mechanism of Action

Tricyclic antidepressants act on approximately five different neurotransmitter pathways to achieve their effects. They block the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in presynaptic terminals, which leads to increased concentration of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft.