Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026

Presynaptic Dopamine Dynamics in Striatal Brain Slices with Fast-scan Cyclic Voltammetry
Published on: January 12, 2012
Amitriptyline inhibits striatal efflux of neurotransmitters via blockade of voltage-dependent Na+ channels
Abstract:
Amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, almost completely inhibited veratridine- or scorpion toxin-evoked efflux of endogenous dopamine (DA) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) from rat striatal slices without any effects of 30 mM K+ or 4-aminopyridine on basal and evoked efflux. The effects of amitriptyline on glutamate efflux were comparable to those on DA or GABA efflux. These effects of amitriptyline can be well explained by its blockade of voltage-dependent Na+ channels and may be independent of other activities of this drug such as re-uptake inhibition of monoamines and blockade of K+ channels.
Related Concept Videos
Neurochemical Transmission: Sites of Drug Action
Adrenergic Agonists: Indirect-Acting Agents
One mechanism involves depleting stored catecholamines by displacing them from synaptic vesicles. These agents, known as "displacers," are transported into vesicles at the expense of noradrenaline. Examples include amphetamine and tyramine, which lack a catechol moiety, resulting in prolonged action, improved oral bioavailability, and...
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Release or Uptake
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Synthesis
Antidepressant Drugs: Tricyclics, SSRIs, and SNRIs
Antidepressant Drugs: MAOIs and Other Agents

