Electrocardiographic effects of tranylcypromine vs. amitriptyline

The authors compared ECG changes during the course of treatment with a tricyclic antidepressant (amitriptyline) or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (tranylcypromine) in 22 adult psychiatric patients. Amitriptyline-treated patients showed increased heart rate, PR, QRS, and QTc intervals. Tranylcypromine-treated patients showed no significant changes in ECG parameters. The clinical significance of the differing pattern of ECG effects for tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors is discussed.