These commentaries are based on Dr Gillman’s peer reviewed scientific papers, see Publications,
1. Patients with previous episodes of severe depression (especially if it was unresponsive, or only partially responsive, to an SSRI)
2. Those whose current episode is severe or shows psychomotor retardation or lack of energy (optimal choices, amitriptyline and clomipramine, my preference is for clomipramine because it is an ‘SNRI’).
3. Those with pre-existing history of, or present symptoms of, marked insomnia
4. Those with history or present symptoms of gastrointestinal disturbance, GI bleed, reflux, dyspepsia
5. Those with history of significant suicidal features. Such patients may be made worse by SSRIs and there is some concern that in a small number a feeling of restlessness (induced by SSRIs) may increase suicidal risk. There is minimal risk of over-dose with the prescribed TCA, because, as part ‘good clinical management’, patients will be attending frequently. A small supply may be issued at each visit if no responsible person is available to supervise the supply. Remember — 95% of those who die by suicide use means other than the prescribed drugs.
6. Those with high anxiety or agitation (may be especially at risk re 5 above).
7. Those with conspicuous anorexia and weight loss.
8. If concern over cytochrome P450 enzyme drug interactions is relevant. TCAs cause less problems in this area than many SSRIs.
9. A history of hyponatremia.
The above factors, and others, suggest a TCA may be the optimal first choice.
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PsychoTropical is funded solely through generous donations, which has enabled extensive development and improvement of all associated activities. Many people who follow the advice on the website will save enormously on doctors, treatment costs, hospitalization, etc. which in some cases will amount to many thousands of dollars, even tens of thousands — never mind all the reduction in suffering and the resultant destruction of family, work, social, and leisure capability. A donation of $100, or $500, is little compared to those savings. Some less-advantaged people feel that the little they can give is so small it won’t make a difference – but five dollars monthly helps: so, do not think that a little donation is not useful.
– Dr Ken Gillman
