What medication is known to decrease basal metabolic rate (BMR)?

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that can influence metabolic processes in the body. It is known to potentially lower the basal metabolic rate (BMR) due to its sedative properties and effects on neurotransmitter systems. When someone is on amitriptyline, they may experience increased sedation and decreased energy levels, which can lead to a reduction in physical activity. This reduction in activity often contributes to a lower BMR, as the body's energy expenditure decreases.

In contrast, medications such as epinephrine typically increase BMR by stimulating metabolic activity through the sympathetic nervous system. Levothyroxine, a thyroid hormone replacement therapy, acts to increase BMR by enhancing metabolic processes. Corticosteroids can lead to increased glucose production and changes in lipid metabolism, potentially affecting BMR but not in the same way that amitriptyline does. Thus, the distinctive action of amitriptyline in this context is what makes it the correct choice for a medication known to decrease BMR.