Indications 

Elavil is a prescription medication intended for the treatment of depression in adult patients. It has the potential to enhance mood and promote a sense of well-being, alleviate anxiety and tension, promote restful sleep, and boost energy levels. 

Categorized as a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), Elavil acts by blocking the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine neurotransmitters at presynaptic terminals aiding in maintaining mental balance. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Elavil and with each subsequent refill, thoroughly review its patient information leaflet and medication guide. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or clarifications. 

Elavil dosage is based on an individual’s medical condition and response to treatment. It is usually initiated at the lowest dose and is gradually increased with a healthcare professional’s guidance. 

The typical dosing frequency for Elavil ranges from one to four times daily. When administered once daily, it is recommended to take the medication at bedtime as this may aid in mitigating excessive daytime drowsiness. 

For optimal results, take Elavil consistently at the same time each day, adhering strictly to the prescribed regimen without modifying the dosage, frequency, or duration of use unless instructed by a physician. Deviating from the prescribed protocol will not expedite recovery and may heighten the likelihood of encountering undesirable side effects. 

Continue to take Elavil even if you feel well. Abruptly stopping this medication without a doctor’s approval may result in withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headache, and fatigue.  

A gradual reduction in dosage may be necessary if you wish to stop treatment with Elavil and should only be initiated under a healthcare professional’s guidance. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are potential adverse reactions associated with Elavil. Should any of these symptoms persist or worsen, promptly inform your doctor. 

Common Side Effects 

• Drowsiness 
• Dizziness 
• Dry mouth 
• Impaired visual acuity 
• Constipation 
• Increase in body weight 
• Urinary retention 

Serious Side Effects 

• Excessive bruising or bleeding tendencies 
• Chronic heartburn 
• Tremors 
• Mask-like facial expressions 
• Muscle spasms 
• Intense abdominal discomfort 
• Reduced libido 
• Enlarged or tender mammary glands 
• Black stools 
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds 
• Severe vertigo 
• Fainting  
• Seizures 
• Ocular pain, inflammation, or swelling 
• Alterations in vision 
• Elevated body temperature 
• Stiffness in muscles 
• Severe confusion 
• Sweating 
• Rapid or irregular cardiac rhythm 

Call your doctor at once if you experience any of the severe symptoms listed above. 

Elavil has the potential to induce QT prolongation, which is a cardiac rhythm abnormality. In rare cases, QT prolongation can result in severe symptoms (such as rapid or irregular heartbeat) that necessitate immediate medical intervention and may even be fatal. Other indications of this condition include severe dizziness and fainting. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, serious allergic reactions may occur with Elavil use. Seek medical assistance immediately if any of the following symptoms occur: 

• Rash 
• Itching/swelling of the face, tongue, or throat 
• Severe dizziness 
• Breathing difficulties 

The enlisted adverse effects here are not an exhaustive compilation of the potential side effects linked to Elavil. If any bothersome effects not specified above are experienced, promptly seek medical advice from your doctor. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Elavil, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to amitriptyline or any of its inactive ingredients. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. 

To ensure Elavil is safe for you, disclose your medical history to your doctor, especially: 

• Bleeding complications 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Liver disorders 
• Recent cardiac event 
• Urination problems (e.g., caused by an enlarged prostate) 
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) 
• Personal or family history of angle-closure glaucoma 
• Personal or family history of mental or mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder, psychosis) 
• Family history of suicide 
• Seizures 
• Conditions that may heighten your risk of seizures (e.g., other brain diseases, alcohol withdrawal) 

To mitigate the risk of potential drug interactions, inform your doctor and pharmacist of all prescription and non-prescription drugs, supplements, vitamins, and herbal products that you are currently taking or intend to use.  

Listed below are some products that may interact with Elavil, including:  

• Arbutamine 
• Disulfiram 
• Thyroid supplements 
• Other drugs that may cause bleeding or bruising, including: 
  • Antiplatelet medications such as clopidogrel 
  • NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen 
  • Blood thinners such as dabigatran or warfarin 
• Anticholinergic drugs such as belladonna alkaloids 
• Certain medications for high blood pressure (drugs that function in the brain, such as clonidine and guanabenz) 

Be mindful to tell your doctor if you are taking any products listed below, for they can affect the removal of amitriptyline from the body, thereby affecting how it works. 

• Cimetidine 
• Terbinafine 
• Drugs to treat irregular heart rates such as quinidine, propafenone, and flecainide 
• Antidepressants such as SSRIs including paroxetine, fluoxetine, and fluvoxamine 

The use of MAO inhibitors in conjunction with Elavil may result in a severe (potentially fatal) drug interaction. MAO inhibitors should be discontinued for two weeks before and after receiving treatment with Elavil. Consult with your doctor to determine when to commence or terminate your medication course. 

Elavil has the potential to induce drowsiness. Therefore, it is recommended that you avoid driving or operating machinery until you have a clear understanding of how this medication impacts your cognitive abilities. 

Alcohol can intensify the drowsiness induced by Elavil. Therefore, caution should be exercised when consuming alcohol during treatment with this medication. 

Elavil has the potential to increase sensitivity to sunlight. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and wear protective clothing when going outdoors.  

Application of sunscreen is also advised when going out. If sunburn, skin blisters, or redness are observed, contact your physician immediately. 

The administration of Elavil during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential advantages to the mother significantly outweigh the potential risks to the developing fetus. 

Amitriptyline can infiltrate breast milk, and the impact on a nursing infant is indeterminate. Before breastfeeding, speak with your healthcare provider to evaluate potential risks and benefits.