Which class of antidepressants is known for causing anticholinergic side effects?

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are indeed associated with anticholinergic side effects. This is because they possess significant anticholinergic activity due to their structure and the way they interact with neurotransmitter systems. TCAs can block the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, which leads to a range of common side effects, including dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, urinary retention, and increased heart rate.

In contrast, other classes of antidepressants, such as SSRIs, MAOIs, and SNRIs, typically do not have notable anticholinergic effects. SSRIs primarily target serotonin reuptake without significantly affecting cholinergic receptors. MAOIs work by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase but do not have anticholinergic properties. SNRIs, similarly, focus on the reuptake inhibition of both serotonin and norepinephrine, with minimal cholinergic receptor interaction. Thus, the understanding of TCAs' anticholinergic side effects distinguishes them within the broader landscape of antidepressant medications.