Which class of antidepressants blocks the uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin?

The correct choice identifies the class of antidepressants that inhibits the reuptake of both norepinephrine and serotonin. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are known for their ability to block the reuptake of these two neurotransmitters by acting on their respective transporters. This mechanism increases the availability of norepinephrine and serotonin in the synaptic cleft, enhancing mood and alleviating depressive symptoms.

Tricyclic antidepressants work by binding to and blocking the norepinephrine transporter (NET) as well as the serotonin transporter (SERT), therefore prolonging the effects of these neurotransmitters. This dual mechanism contributes to their efficacy in treating depression, as both norepinephrine and serotonin play crucial roles in mood regulation.

In contrast, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) specifically target and block the reuptake of serotonin alone, which is why they mainly enhance serotonergic activity without significantly affecting norepinephrine levels. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) also target both neurotransmitters, but they represent a different class than tricyclic antidepressants due to their distinct chemical structures and side effect profiles. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO inhibitors) work by inhibiting