TCA (Tricyclic Antidepressants) are commonly used for the treatment of depressive disorders. TCA overdoses can result in profound CNS depression, cardiotoxicity and anticholinergic effects. TCA overdose is the most common cause of death from prescription drugs. TCAs are taken orally or sometimes by injection. TCAs are metabolized in the liver. Both TCAs and their metabolites are excreted in urine mostly in the form of metabolites for up to ten days.
The Multi-Drug Rapid Test Panel yields a positive result when the concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants in urine exceeds detective level. At present, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) does not have a recommended screening cut-off for tricyclic antidepressant positive specimens.