Which statement best describes the side effects associated with cyclic antidepressants?

• A. Weight loss and tachycardia
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Insomnia only
• D. Anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth and urinary retention, plus sedation and weight gain

Answer: (D)

Cyclic antidepressants block acetylcholine receptors, histamine receptors, and other targets, which creates a mix of anticholinergic, sedative, and autonomic effects. The anticholinergic actions lead to dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, and blurred vision. The antihistaminic effect contributes to sedation, and these drugs can increase appetite, producing weight gain. While tachycardia and orthostatic changes can occur from other receptor blockades, weight loss is not typical and insomnia alone doesn’t capture the full side-effect pattern. So describing anticholinergic effects plus sedation and weight gain best reflects the common side effect profile of cyclic antidepressants.