When are tricyclic antidepressants such as Tofranil (imipramine), Norpramin (desipramine), and Elavil (amitriptyline) used to treat ADD children?
This group of medications is generally considered when contraindications to stimulants exist, when stimulants have not been effective or have resulted in unacceptable side effects, or when the antidepressant property is more critical to treatment than the decrease of inattentiveness. They are used much less frequently than the stimulants, seem to have a different mechanism of action, and may be somewhat less effective than the psychostimulants in treating ADD. Long-term use of the tricyclics has not been well studied. Children with ADD who are also experiencing anxiety or depression may do best with an initial trial of a tricyclic antidepressant, followed (if needed) with a stimulant for the more classic ADD symptoms. What are the side effects of tricyclic antidepressant medications? Side effects include constipation and dry mouth. Symptomatic treatment with stool softeners and sugar-free gum or candy are usually effective in alleviating the discomfort. Confusion, elevated blood pressu
