Which of the following medications is NOT a tricyclic antidepressant?

Sertraline is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is a different category of antidepressant compared to tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). SSRIs work primarily by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and decrease anxiety.

In contrast, the other medications listed — amitriptyline, doxepin, and nortriptyline — are all tricyclic antidepressants. TCAs are known for their ability to affect multiple neurotransmitters, including norepinephrine and serotonin, but they also carry a higher risk of side effects due to their mechanism of action, which includes antagonism of various receptors beyond just serotonin.

Understanding the classifications of these medications is essential for safe pharmacy practice, as it informs appropriate choices for patient treatment based on their specific psychiatric and medical needs.