What are SNRIs and how do they work?

SNRIs target serotonin and norepinephrine, increasing their availability in the brain to alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms by preventing reuptake.

What conditions do SNRIs treat?

SNRIs are prescribed for depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and certain chronic pain conditions like diabetic nerve pain and fibromyalgia.

What are common side effects of SNRIs?

Common side effects include diarrhea, sexual dysfunction, dizziness, weight changes, and increased blood pressure or heart rate.

How do tricyclic antidepressants work?

TCAs inhibit reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, increasing their availability, but they also affect other receptors causing more side effects.

What Are SNRIs and Tricyclics? Differences & Treatment Insights

Q: What conditions are TCAs used to treat?

TCAs treat depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, chronic pain, migraines, and insomnia, especially when other treatments have failed.

Understanding antidepressant options is crucial for effective treatment of depression and anxiety. This guide compares SNRIs and Tricyclic antidepressants, highlighting their mechanisms, uses, side effects, and which might suit your needs best.

SNRIs target serotonin and norepinephrine to improve mood and energy, while TCAs inhibit reuptake but have more side effects. Your provider can help determine the best option for you.

When SSRIs Aren’t the Right Choice

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are first-line treatments but may not work for everyone or cause undesirable side effects. Alternatives like SNRIs and TCAs are considered second or third-line options when SSRIs are ineffective or not tolerated.

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

How Do SNRIs Work?

SNRIs increase the availability of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain by blocking their reabsorption, which helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. They also treat certain pain conditions like fibromyalgia.

What Do SNRIs Treat?

SNRIs are prescribed for depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, and chronic pain conditions such as diabetic nerve pain and fibromyalgia.

Most Commonly Prescribed SNRIs

Effexor (venlafaxine)
Cymbalta (duloxetine)
Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)
Fetzima (levomilnacipran)

Common Side Effects

Diarrhea or constipation
Sexual dysfunction
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Weight fluctuations
Increased blood pressure or heart rate

Warnings for Use

SNRIs can cause serotonin syndrome if combined with certain medications, and must be used cautiously in individuals with heart, liver, or kidney issues. Discontinuation should be supervised by a healthcare provider.

Potential Drug Interactions

Interactions include MAOIs, SSRIs, TCAs, CNS depressants, blood thinners, NSAIDs, antifungals, and others, which can increase side effects or reduce efficacy.

How Do Tricyclics Work?

TCAs inhibit reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine to improve mood, but they also affect other receptors such as cholinergic and histaminergic, leading to more side effects.

What Do Tricyclic Antidepressants Treat?

TCAs are used for depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, chronic pain, migraines, and insomnia, especially when other treatments have failed.

Most Commonly Prescribed TCAs

Desipramine (Norpramin)
Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
Amitriptyline (Elavil)
Clomipramine (Anafranil)
Doxepin (Sinequan)

Side Effects of TCAs

Urinary hesitancy
Increased appetite
Sexual dysfunction
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Blood pressure changes

Warnings and Precautions

TCAs should be used cautiously in patients with heart rhythm disorders, urinary retention, or a history of cardiac issues. They are also more problematic in older adults due to anticholinergic effects.

Drug Interactions

Interactions include MAOIs, SSRIs, other antidepressants, anticholinergics, CNS depressants, antiarrhythmics, antihistamines, and blood pressure medications, which can cause toxicity or adverse effects.

Which Medication Is Right for You?

The choice depends on medical history, previous responses, side effect tolerability, and cost. Your healthcare provider can help tailor treatment, whether using SNRIs, TCAs, or other antidepressants.

Sharing your past medication experiences and side effects with your provider can improve treatment success and reduce unnecessary side effects.

If You Suffer from Anxiety or Depression, Klarity Can Help

Whether dealing with treatment-resistant depression or seeking a different medication, Klarity Health connects you with licensed providers for online diagnosis and prescription. Appointments are available within 24–48 hours.

Get started today and access compassionate, affordable mental health care with trusted professionals. We accept 50+ insurance plans and offer cash-pay options.

Medical Disclaimer

Important: This content is for educational purposes only and not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized treatment. In case of psychiatric emergency, seek immediate help from professionals or call emergency services.