Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants: comparison of their cardiovascular effects
Goldman, L.S.; Alexander, R.C.; Luchins, D.J.
Journal of Clinical Psychiatry 47(5): 225-229
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0160-6689 PMID: 3516976 Document Number: 272207
The cardiovascular effects of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are contrasted with those of the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). At therapeutic doses, MAOIs lower supine blood pressure and increase the postural fall in blood pressure, whereas TCAs have only the latter effect. MAOIs have little effect on heart rate and do not prolong cardiac conduction; TCAs increase heart rate and prolong cardiac conduction. Neither class of drugs appears to impair cardiac mechanical functioning. For patients with certain cardiac problems, MAOIs may have an advantage over TCAs.