Antidepressants Flashcards
1
Q
Describe the volume of distribution of tricyclic antidepressants. How does this influence their toxicity?
A
TCA’s have a large Vd, meaning that tissue concentrations are high in well-perfused organs such as the brain and heart.
2
Q
What therapies for tricyclic toxicity might reduce their tissue distribution?
A
Alkalinisation (e.g. bicarbonate or hyperventilation) increases plasma protein binding of the free drug, removing it from the tissues, reducing its toxicity.
