Tricyclic antidepressants contain a characteristic three ringed nucleus structure. They act primarily as serotoninnorepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Tricyclic antidepressants are mainly used as antidepressants, but have also been for the treatment of anxiety disorders and attention hyperactivity disorder and as an adjunct to certain analgesics to treat chronic pain. In many treatments they have been replaced by other compounds with fewer sideeffects. Tricyclic antidepressants are not considered addictive and have a low abuse potential, but suddenly discontinuing treatment may results in discontinuation syndrome and overdose is a main cause of death from prescription drugs. They have significant cardiovascular and neurological toxicity. Monitoring of TCA levels can help determine toxicity, monitor compliance and establish individual target concentrations. Imipramine is a member of the family of tricyclic antidepressants. Its clinical effect is hypothesized as being due to potentiation of adrenergic synapses by blocking uptake of norepinephrine at nerve endings. Imipramine is a very powerful antidepressant and is converted to desipramine in the body.Synonyms: Antideprin, Berkomine, Cristalia, Melipramine, Prazepine, Sermonil, Tricyclic Antidepressant