About amitriptyli ne hcl
Tricyclic antidepressant
Used for
- Depression
- Nerve pain
- Migraine prevention
- Long-term tension-type headache prevention
Usual adult dose
Depression: usually 25–50 mg at bedtime, increased gradually; nerve pain or headache prevention: usually 10–25 mg at bedtime.
Usual dose in children
Not routinely used for depression in children; specialist-directed dosing may be used for nerve pain or headache prevention.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness and dizziness
- Dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision
- Weight gain
- Difficulty passing urine
Important warnings
- May cause suicidal thoughts, especially early in treatment or after dose changes.
- Can affect heart rhythm; extra caution with heart disease or older age.
- Do not stop suddenly; withdrawal symptoms may occur.
- Overdose can be life-threatening; keep away from children.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically needed; discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; monitor the infant for sleepiness and poor feeding.
Interactions
- MAO inhibitors: risk of serious reactions; avoid combining.
- Other medicines that cause sleepiness can increase sedation.
- Medicines that affect heart rhythm can raise heart risks.
- Some antidepressants increase amitriptyline levels or side effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.