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Amitriptyline is a prescription tricyclic antidepressant used for relief of symptoms of depression. It has sedative and anticholinergic properties in addition to antidepressant activity. Tablets are available in several strengths, commonly ranging from 10 mg to 150 mg. Dosing starts low and is increased gradually according to clinical response and tolerability.
read more about amitriptyline ...The exact antidepressant mechanism is not fully known. Amitriptyline inhibits reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin in nerve cells, which prolongs activity of these neurotransmitters at synapses. It also has effects at other receptor systems that contribute to sedation, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and other anticholinergic reactions.
Current U.S. tablet labeling states that amitriptyline is used for relief of symptoms of depression. Endogenous depression is described as more responsive than other depressive states. The label does not establish pediatric safety and efficacy. Clinical dosing and treatment length are individualized, with continued assessment of mood, adverse reactions, and suicide risk.
Adult outpatient treatment commonly starts at 75 mg daily in divided doses, with increases up to 150 mg daily when needed. Another starting regimen uses 50 to 100 mg at bedtime. Maintenance dosing is commonly 50 to 100 mg daily. Lower starting doses are used in older adults, and dose reduction is gradual when treatment ends.
Amitriptyline carries a boxed warning about increased suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults taking antidepressants. Other risks include abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, low blood pressure, anticholinergic effects, serotonin syndrome with interacting medicines, sedation, and severe toxicity in overdose. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are contraindicated with amitriptyline.
Yes. Amitriptyline belongs to the tricyclic antidepressant class and affects norepinephrine and serotonin reuptake.
Yes. Current U.S. tablet labeling lists relief of symptoms of depression as its indication.
Yes. Drowsiness and sedation are recognized effects, which is one reason some dosing regimens place a larger dose at bedtime.
No. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are contraindicated with amitriptyline due to the risk of severe reactions.
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