When SSRIs have not been effective, Tricyclic antidepressants are often prescribed.Both adults and children can be treated with TCAs.In children, TCAs are used to treat a number of disorders.Depression, nerve pain, and chronic pain are some of the conditions that are prescribed for in adults.To make sure the medicine is right for you, always see a Psychiatrist.
Step 1: You can make an appointment with the prescriber.
While some people choose to discuss their medication with a general doctor, you may want to seek the help of an expert in mental health, such as a Psychiatrist.Drug interactions, side-effects, and dosage can be discussed with a Psychiatrist.A mental health professional can help you make an informed decision about medication.
Step 2: Your medical history should be reported.
Discuss your medications with your doctor.Any vitamins, herbs, and supplements are included.Discuss any allergies or adverse effects with your doctor.If you know, you can include a family history of medication use.Before your appointment, prepare your medication history.If you have had any interactions with medications, write them down.
Step 3: Get some therapy.
Therapy and medication are effective at treating depression.Therapy can help you approach life in a more productive way.Therapy can help bring awareness to thoughts and behaviors and make them more adaptive.Therapy is the best course of treatment for many individuals.Studies show that cognitive therapy is equally effective as medication.
Step 4: Use as directed.
Follow your prescriber's instructions.Your prescriber may tell you when to take your medication, whether to include food, and how often.Reducing symptoms and decreasing the risk of side-effects can be achieved by using a low dose of TCAs.Do not skip or double the dose.Take medication on a regular basis.
Step 5: They do not act immediately.
People can notice effects within a few days.After a few weeks after the medication has had time to build up in the body, it is common for people to experience effects.If the medication doesn't work, it's best to wait 3-4 weeks before changing to another medication or stopping completely.If you feel that the medication is not working, don't increase your dose.If you are concerned, contact your provider.
Step 6: Take care of your health regularly.
Health problems can be caused by higher doses of TCAs.Blood tests may be taken by some medical doctors to make sure the medications don't affect health.The levels of TCAs in the bloodstream are measured with these tests.
Step 7: You should not share your medication.
Don't sell or share medication with friends or family.Refer someone to a prescriber if you think they may benefit from the drug.Do not give it to someone else.It is not advised to share drugs.There are risks of sharing medication.A person may have a drug allergy or experience negative side-effects.
Step 8: If you're trying to get pregnant, use caution.
Talk to your prescriber if you are pregnant, thinking about getting pregnant or trying to get pregnant.Let your doctor know if you are on the drug.You can stop taking medication or adjust your dose.Discuss your issues with your doctor.
Step 9: It's a good idea to stop use safely.
withdrawal symptoms in the body can be caused by stopping medication abruptly.Symptoms may include nausea, sweating, flu-like symptoms, headaches and dizziness.Talk to your prescriber about the end of your medication.He or she will help you gradually reduce your dose.
Step 10: Take into account side-effects.
There are unpleasant side-effects of TCAs.Dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, drowsiness, increased appetite/weight gain, and sweating are the most common side-effects.There are more serious side-effects that include confusion, tremors, irregular heartbeat, low sex drive or difficulty with orgasm.Discuss the risks of the drug with your doctor.
Step 11: Use and dosage can be monitored.
It is important to be aware of any unpleasant side-effects you may encounter if you take medication.You can try several medications to find one that works for you.If you want to use as directed, do not deviate from the prescribed dose.You should keep a journal of any changes you notice in your thoughts and behaviors.
Step 12: You can schedule regular check-up appointments.
Within the first few weeks, watch for any side-effects of the medication.There are changes in thoughts, moods, and behaviors related to medication use.Track emerging symptoms and discuss them with your prescriber.
Step 13: Contact your prescriber if you have any difficulties with your medication.
Let your prescriber know if you have any side-effects.If you think the side-effects of the medication aren't worth it, talk to your prescriber.You can try a different medication or adjust your dose.Major health upsets should be reported to your prescriber immediately.
Step 14: It's a good idea to watch for suicidal thoughts.
The strictest warning for prescription drugs is required by the FDA of the United States of America.Children, teenagers, and young adults can be at increased risk for suicidal thoughts.If you experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors, immediately seek help.You can call a hotline or go to the Emergency Department.Call your therapist immediately.
Step 15: Know the risks of the drugs.
Serotonin Syndrome is caused by the body being flooded with too much serotonin, which is why you can run the risk of getting it.Serotonin levels can lead to anxiety, confusion, tremors, lack of coordination, and rapid heart rate.Seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.Serotonin syndrome can be caused by mixing TCAs with St. John's Wort.During your appointment, talk to your prescriber about St. John's Wort.If you have one of the following diagnoses, take extra precautions.
Step 16: Limit alcohol use.
The effects of alcohol can be stronger.It is important to set limits.Talk to your prescriber about limits for alcohol consumption.
Step 17: Don't be fooled by abuse.
They have the potential to be abused.Only your prescriber can tell you what to use.Do not take more than the prescribed dose.Do not change your dose without notifying your doctor.
Step 18: It's a good idea to avoid overdose.
Seizures, altered mental state, and other symptoms can be caused by an overdose of TCAs.People have taken fatal amounts of the drug.The chance of death is 70% if the person doesn't get medical treatment.The chance of death decreases when you reach medical treatment.