Amitriptyline
Information about Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline uses
Amitriptyline is used for preventive treatment of migraine, neuropathic pain and depression. It is used in patients intolerant of or unresponsive to alternative treatment options for depression.
How amitriptyline works
Amitriptyline increases the levels of chemical messengers in the brain that help in regulating the mood and treat depression.
Common side effects of amitriptyline
Sleepiness, Blurred vision, Increased heart rate, Dryness in mouth, Constipation, Weight gain, Difficulty in urination, Orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing)
Available Medicine for Amitriptyline
Expert advice for Amitriptyline
- The main dose should be taken at night as this drug may produce drowsiness or sleepiness.
- It can take 4 to 6 weeks for Amitriptyline to start working.
- You should continue the treatment for at least 6 months after you feel better to stop depression from coming back.
- If your doctor asks you to stop Amitriptyline, you should reduce the dose slowly over 4 weeks. You should not discontinue it abruptly.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery as it may decrease alertness.
- Avoid consuming alcohol when taking the Amitriptyline, as it may cause excessive drowsiness and calmness.
- The addiction/dependence potential of Amitriptyline is very less.
- It may be extremely dangerous in overdose.
Frequently asked questions for Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline
Q. Is Amitriptyline safe?
Amitriptyline is safe if used at prescribed doses for the prescribed duration as advised by your doctor
Q. Is Amitriptyline a steroid?
No, Amitriptyline is not a steroid. It belongs to class of medication called as tricyclic antidepressant.
Q. Can I take Amitriptyline with Betahistine?
Amitriptyline has not been clinically studied when used along with Betahistine. So there are no reports of any drug-drug interactions or harmful effects when these are used together.