Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant primarily used to treat depression. It is also used off-label for conditions such as insomnia, migraine prevention, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and certain types of pain. Amitriptyline increases the levels of neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps regulate mood.

Uses:

• FDA-Approved: Depression
• Off-Label: Insomnia, migraine prevention, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychotic disorders, pain

History and Availability:

• FDA Approval: April 7, 1961, under the brand name Elavil (now discontinued)
• Current Availability: Generic form
• Other Brand Names: Vanatrip, Endep (both discontinued)

Combination Therapies:

• With Chlordiazepoxide: Treats moderate to severe depression associated with anxiety
• With Perphenazine: Treats severe anxiety and/or agitation

Side Effects:

Common Side Effects:

• Dry mouth
• Vision changes
• Sedation
• Tiredness
• Appetite or weight changes
• Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach
• Mouth pain, unusual taste, black tongue
• Urinary issues
• Breast swelling (men or women)
• Lower sex drive, impotence, difficulty achieving orgasm

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, hives, swelling)
• Mood or behavior changes
• Blood clot symptoms (numbness, weakness, vision or speech problems, swelling or redness in limbs)
• Unusual thoughts or behavior, light-headedness, chest pain, heart issues, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, urinary pain, severe constipation, bruising, unusual bleeding, fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores

Warnings:

• Heart Attack: Do not use if recently had a heart attack
• MAO Inhibitors: Do not use within 14 days of taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
• Suicidal Thoughts: Increased risk, especially in those under 24 years old; regular monitoring required
• Glaucoma: May trigger an attack in patients with narrow angles

Precautions:

Inform your doctor if you have:

• Bipolar disorder or schizophrenia
• Mental illness or psychosis
• Liver or heart disease
• History of heart attack, stroke, or seizures
• Diabetes
• Glaucoma
• Urinary issues

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. Not approved for those under 12 years old.

Administration:

• Follow Prescribed Directions: Do not alter dose without consultation
• Onset of Effects: May take up to 4 weeks for symptom improvement
• Surgery: Inform your surgeon if you are taking amitriptyline
• Discontinuation: Do not stop suddenly; consult your doctor for tapering instructions

Storage:

• Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F), away from moisture and heat

Missed Dose:

• Take as soon as possible, or skip if close to the next dose. Do not double up.

Overdose:

• Seek emergency help. Overdose can be fatal with symptoms like irregular heart rhythm, fainting, seizures, or coma.

Avoid While Taking Amitriptyline:

• Alcohol (increases risk of dangerous side effects)
• Driving or hazardous activities until you know how it affects you
• Sun exposure (increases risk of sunburn)

Drug Interactions:

Inform your doctor if you take:

• Other antidepressants
• Medications for mental illness, Parkinson's disease, stomach problems, motion sickness, overactive bladder, asthma
• Cold or allergy medicines (e.g., Benadryl)

Related Drugs:

• Gabapentin
• Acetaminophen
• Sertraline
• Ibuprofen
• Trazodone
• Tramadol
• Diclofenac

For detailed dosage and further information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The product image are for the references only generic equivalents may also be supplied by alternative manufacturers.