- Amitriptyline is a prescription medication primarily used to treat depression, neuropathic pain in adults, and bedwetting in children over six.
- Doctors may also prescribe it off-label for managing insomnia, migraines, anxiety, and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Common side effects include drowsiness and dry mouth, and it requires careful medical supervision, especially regarding dosage and potential drug interactions.
Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that also provides relief for anxiety and pain. It is primarily prescribed to treat depression and neuropathic pain in adults.
Healthcare providers may also prescribe this medication for nocturnal enuresis in children aged six and older. This condition, commonly known as bedwetting, can often be managed effectively with lower doses.
Amitriptyline is available at most pharmacies with a valid medical prescription. It is typically sold as the generic "amitriptyline hydrochloride" or under brand names like Elavil.
What is it used for
Amitriptyline is indicated for the following conditions:
-
Depression or neuropathic pain in adults.
-
Nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) in children over 6 years old.
Doctors may also prescribe amitriptyline off-label for insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is also frequently used for the prevention of chronic tension-type headaches and migraines.
The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific medical goal. Therefore, it is crucial to follow a healthcare provider's instructions closely.
How to take it
Usage directions must always come from a doctor, as dosages vary significantly based on age and the condition being treated.
1. Depression
The typical recommended dosages for treating depression are:
-
Adults: The initial dose is usually 25 mg taken twice a day (every 12 hours). If necessary, the doctor may gradually increase the daily dose by 25 mg increments up to a maximum of 150 mg per day, divided into two doses. Once symptoms are controlled, the doctor will likely lower the dose.
-
Children: Amitriptyline should only be used in children over 12 years old for this condition. The typical dosage ranges from 10 to 50 mg per day, divided throughout the day according to the doctor's instructions.
Like other antidepressants, amitriptyline may take up to four weeks to produce the desired effect. Any changes to the dosage or discontinuation of the drug must be done under medical supervision.
2. Nocturnal enuresis
The typical recommended dosages for treating bedwetting are:
-
Children aged 6 to 10: The usual dose is 10 to 20 mg taken at bedtime.
-
Children over 11: The usual dose is 25 to 50 mg taken at bedtime.
Improvements in bedwetting often appear within a few days. However, it is important to continue the treatment for the full duration prescribed by the doctor to ensure the problem does not return.
3. Neuropathic pain
The typical recommended dosages for treating neuropathic pain are:
-
Adults: The initial dose is 10 to 25 mg per day taken at bedtime. The recommended maintenance dose is 25 to 75 mg per day.
The pain-relieving effect is typically observed two to four weeks after starting treatment.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects during treatment for depression include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, changes in taste, weight gain, increased appetite, and headache.
Side effects resulting from the use of amitriptyline for bedwetting occur less frequently, as the dosages used are generally lower.
However, children may experience side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, and constipation.
Who should not take it
Amitriptyline hydrochloride is contraindicated for people currently taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or those who have suffered a heart attack within the last 30 days.
It must not be used by anyone with a known allergy to any components in the formula.
In cases of pregnancy or breastfeeding, this medication should only be used under the guidance of an OB-GYN.
Additionally, due to its sedative effects, amitriptyline should be avoided by people who operate heavy machinery or drive professionally, as the medication can interfere with concentration and driving ability.