Elavil is used for relieving the symptoms of depression. Elavil is more likely to relieve the symptoms of endogenous depression than those of other depressive states. Elavil is administered orally in the form of a tablet. It is taken one to four times a day, with or without food. Follow strictly the directions for taking Elavil. Do not change the dosage or take Elavil more frequently than prescribed by your doctor. Even if your condition improves, continue taking Elavil. Do not terminate the treatment with Elavil without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been given large doses over a long period of time. A gradual decrease in the dosage may be required. In order for Elavil to exercise its full effect, it must be taken regularly for a period of few weeks.
Warnings Precautions
In case you suffer from liver or kidney disease; asthma; thyroid disease; diabetes; stomach or intestinal problems; high blood pressure or heart disease; if you have had a heart attack in the last 6 weeks; an enlarged prostate or difficulty urinating; or glaucoma, consult your doctor before beginning treatment with Elavil. Dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment may be required if you suffer from any of the above-listed conditions. In some cases treatment with Elavil may not be allowed at all. Elavil may have a harmful effect on the fetus. Elavil is also passed onto breast milk and may affect nursing infants. Therefore, if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment, or if you are breast-feeding, do not use Elavil without consulting your doctor first. If you are over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, unsteadiness, loss of coordination and low blood pressure. If such symptoms persist, your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose of Elavil, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise.
Possible Side Effects
Abnormal movements, anxiety, black tongue, blurred vision, breast development in males, breast enlargement, coma, confusion, constipation, delusions, diarrhea, difficult or frequent urination, speech difficulty, dilation of the pupils, disorientation, lower concentration, dizziness upon getting up, light-headedness, drowsiness, dry mouth, excessive or spontaneous flow of milk, excitement, fatigue, fluid retention, hair loss, hallucinations, headaches, heart attacks, hepatitis, high or low blood pressure, high fever, high or low blood sugar, hives, impotence, inability to sleep, increased or decreased sex drive, increased perspiration, increased internal eye pressure, inflammation of the mouth, intestinal obstruction, lack or loss of coordination, loss of appetite, nausea, nightmares, numbness, rapid and fluttery heartbeat, rashes, red or purple spots on the skin, restlessness, ringing in the ears, seizures, sensitivity to light, an upset stomach, strokes, swelling due to fluid retention in the face and tongue, swelling of the testicles, swollen glands, tingling and pins and needles in the arms and legs, tremors, vomiting, weakness, weight gain or loss, yellowed eyes and skin are among the side effects of Elavil. The rapid decrease of Elavil dosage or abrupt termination of the treatment may result in headaches, nausea, vague feeling of bodily discomfort. Dream and sleep disturbances, irritability, and restlessness are among the other side effects caused by a gradual dosage reduction. Older adults are especially liable to certain side effects of Elavil, including a rapid heartbeat, constipation, dry mouth, blurred vision, sedation, and confusion, and are in greater danger of sustaining a fall.
In general, the side effects of Elavil cannot be anticipated. Inform your doctor immediately if such side effects develop or change in intensity. Only your doctor can determine whether treatment with Elavil should be continued.
Storage
Store Elavil tablets in a well-closed container and do not expose 10 mg Elavil tablets to light. Do not store at temperatures above 30?°C (86?°F).
Overdose
Cardiac dysrhythmias, severe hypotension, convulsions, and CNS depression, including coma are among the most recognizable manifestations of an overdose. Electrocardiogram alterations, particularly in the QRS axis or width, are clinically valid indicators of tricyclic antidepressant toxicity. Impaired myocardial contractility, confusion, disturbed concentration, transient visual hallucinations, and dilated pupils, disorders of ocular motility, agitation, hyperactive reflexes, stupor, drowsiness, muscle rigidity, vomiting, hypothermia, and hyperpyrexia are among the other symptoms of an overdose. Overdosing with drugs belonging to this class of medications may result in death.
More Information
Elavil may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If you experience these symptoms, avoid hazardous activities. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery. Dizziness is likely to occur when you rise from a resting position. Rise slowly to prevent accidents. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Elavil, and should therefore be consumed cautiously. Do not terminate the treatment with Elavil abruptly. This may result in nausea, headache, and malaise.
Resources:
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/amitrip.htm
http://www.mentalhealth.com/drug/p30-e01.html
http://www.medicinenet.com/amitriptyline/article.htm
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