Which of the following is a secondary amine TCA?

Desipramine is classified as a secondary amine tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) due to its specific chemical structure and properties. In the context of tricyclic antidepressants, the classification into primary, secondary, or tertiary amines is based on the number of carbon groups attached to the nitrogen atom in the amine. Secondary amines, like desipramine, have two carbon groups bonded to the nitrogen.

Desipramine is known for its selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibition, which is part of why it can effectively alleviate symptoms of depression. This contrasts with other amines such as nortriptyline, which is a tertiary amine, and clomipramine, which has a more complex structure that includes a tertiary amine component. Doxepin, while also a TCA, is a tertiary amine with other functional properties.

These structural classifications are important in pharmacology as they contribute to the different therapeutic profiles, side effects, and mechanisms of action of the various TCAs. Therefore, recognizing desipramine as a secondary amine is essential for understanding its pharmacological role and therapeutic indications in treating mood disorders.