O uso de medicamentos antidepressivos do tipo tricíclicos e suas consequências adversas a longo prazo

Abstract

The WHO defines depression as a mental disorder characterized by constant sadness, loss of interest in enjoyed activities and inability to carry out tasks, being one of the most prevalent mental disorders in Brazil and the world, where studies show that 5.8% of the population is diagnosed with this condition. Care is offered by the SUS with nursing professionals, who play an important role in the care of these patients. Objective: To summarize, from the literature, the effects resulting from the long-term use of tricyclic antidepressant medications on the quality of life of the patient and family. Method: The purpose of the study is to carry out an integrative review of the literature, which allows a broad and complex study to be carried out, using as reference articles that have already been published electronically in the LILACS, ScielO and PUBMED databases, making it possible to arrive at new concepts and conclusions through the combination of the articles studied. Results found: 11 articles were identified that deal with the long-term consequences of the continuous use of tricyclic psychotropic medications as the main object of study, where they mention the main symptoms, such as increased appetite and weight; reduced concentration and attention; intestinal constipation; tremors and tachycardia. Four articles were identified that list nursing care for patients using tricyclic psychotropic medications, which consists of encouraging self care; practice of physical activities and therapies. Final considerations: Health professionals must provide information about the clinical condition and use of antidepressant medications, adverse reactions, side effects and warn about discontinuation of use, to be done under medical guidance and gradually.