A nurse is administering an antidepressant medication to a client. The nurse should understand that which of the following is the major difference between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAS)?

A. SSRIs are more effective in relieving manifestations: SSRIs and TCAs are generally considered equally effective for treating depression. The primary difference lies in their safety profile and side effect burden rather than efficacy. B. SSRIs produce a more sedative effect: SSRIs are usually less sedating than TCAs. TCAs are more likely to cause sedation due to their antihistaminic properties, whereas SSRIs are more activating for some clients. C. TCAs are lethal in overdose: Tricyclic antidepressants have a narrow therapeutic index and can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias in overdose, making them significantly more dangerous compared to SSRIs. This is the major distinction in safety between the two classes. D. TCAs have fewer cardiovascular effects: TCAs are associated with more cardiovascular side effects, including orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, and conduction abnormalities, whereas SSRIs have a safer cardiovascular profile.