AMITRIPTYLINE - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (A-mi-TRIP-ti-leen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Elavil
GENERIC NAME(S): amitriptyline HCl
Uses
USES: This medication is used to treat mental/mood problems such as depression. It may help improve mood and feelings of well-being, relieve anxiety and tension, help you sleep better, and increase your energy level. This medication belongs to a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants. It works by affecting the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters such as serotonin) in the brain.
How to use AMITRIPTYLINE - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking amitriptyline and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth, usually 1 to 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. If you take it only once a day, take it at bedtime to help reduce daytime sleepiness. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects (such as drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness), your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, you may experience symptoms such as mood swings, headache, tiredness, and sleep change. To prevent these symptoms while you are stopping treatment with this drug, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away. This medication may not work right away. You may see some benefit within a week. However, it may take up to 4 weeks before you feel the full effect. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens (such as your feelings of sadness get worse, or you have thoughts of suicide).
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
Images
Reviews
Faq for AMITRIPTYLINE - ORAL
Amitriptyline is used to treat depression. It may also be prescribed for other conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and insomnia.
Amitriptyline belongs to a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants. It works by affecting the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which helps improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.
Common side effects of Amitriptyline may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction. It is important to inform your doctor if any of these side effects become severe or persistent.
Amitriptyline is not addictive, but sudden discontinuation after prolonged use may result in withdrawal symptoms. It is recommended to gradually reduce the dosage under medical supervision if the medication needs to be stopped.
The therapeutic effects of Amitriptyline may take several weeks to manifest. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you do not notice immediate improvement. If you have concerns about the effectiveness of the medication, consult your doctor.
Amitriptyline has potential interactions with other medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and medications that can cause drowsiness. Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking to avoid any potential adverse effects.
The use of Amitriptyline during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider. It may not be recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Pregnant women should consult their doctor for individualized advice.
Amitriptyline may be prescribed to children and adolescents for certain conditions, such as bedwetting or chronic pain. However, it should only be used under close medical supervision, and the potential risks and benefits need to be carefully considered.
Weight gain is a potential side effect of Amitriptyline. However, not everyone experiences this side effect, and it may vary from person to person. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage weight while taking this medication.
Warning
WARNING: Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. Therefore, it is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition. Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
No Reviews Yet