AEMCA Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common tricyclic antidepressant?

1. Citalopram

2. Nortriptyline

3. Prazosin

4. Duloxetine

The correct answer is: Nortriptyline

Nortriptyline is recognized as a common tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), which belongs to a class of medications that are primarily used to treat depression and some anxiety disorders. TCAs work by affecting the neurotransmitters in the brain, primarily norepinephrine and serotonin, which helps to elevate mood and alleviate depressive symptoms. Nortriptyline specifically is often prescribed due to its efficacy and tolerability in patients who may not respond well to other types of antidepressants. The other options represent different classes of medications: Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), primarily used for depression and anxiety. Prazosin is typically utilized for hypertension and PTSD-related nightmares due to its alpha-1 blocker properties. Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), used for depression as well as chronic pain conditions, but it is not classified as a TCA. Each of these medications has unique mechanisms and indications, making nortriptyline the only appropriate choice among the options for a common tricyclic antidepressant.