Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are a class of medications formerly widely prescribed to treat depression, as well as other conditions such as chronic pain and migraine headaches. Because they are metabolized by the body, specific substances can be detected in urine drug screenings when these medications have been ingested. The presence of these metabolites indicates prior use of the substance.
The detection of TCA metabolites is significant in various settings, including employment drug screenings, forensic toxicology, and clinical monitoring of patients prescribed the medication. A positive result can have consequences affecting employment, legal standing, and healthcare management. Understanding the window of detection and potential for false positives due to cross-reactivity with other substances is crucial for accurate interpretation of test results.