Amitriptyline is an effective antidepressant that belongs to the tricyclic class of medications. It is used to treat depression, chronic pain, nocturnal enuresis, migraines, and anxiety disorders. The medication can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and weight gain, but these symptoms often decline over time or with dose reduction.
Amitriptyline is usually taken at night, and its dosage ranges from 10mg to 150mg. It is essential to be patient when taking the medication as it may take up to 8 weeks to fully take effect.
Precautions should be taken when discontinuing the medication, as abrupt stoppage can lead to uncomfortable side effects. Gradual withdrawal under a doctor's supervision is recommended.
Amitriptyline can be used in adults, the elderly, and children over 12 years old, but its use in pregnant and breastfeeding women requires careful evaluation and risk-benefit assessment. The medication is not the first choice for pregnant women but can be used in specific cases. Its low price and availability make it an accessible option.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Amitriptyline is an old but effective antidepressant for depression.
2. It is part of the class of tricyclic medications launched on the market to treat depression and psychiatric illnesses.
3. Amitriptyline is also used to treat migraines and has some functions in neurology.
4. The reference brand name is Amytril.
5. Amitriptyline is used to treat depression, chronic pain, nocturnal enuresis, migraines, and anxiety disorders.
6. The medicine works on the brain and takes 2-4 weeks to start showing effects.
7. It is metabolized by the liver but doesn't overload it.
8. Amitriptyline is available in tablets coated in a dosage of 10, 25, and 75 mg of the active ingredient.
9. The minimum therapeutic dosage varies from 10 to 150 mg.
10. The maximum dosage is 150 mg, and it's used more for depressive conditions.
11. Cardiac monitoring with an electrocardiogram is necessary for doses greater than 100 milligrams.
12. The plasma concentration of Amitriptyline peaks after 2-12 hours, and it has a half-life of 9 to 25 hours.
13. The duration of action is 2-4 weeks, and it may take up to 6-8 weeks to fully heal.
14. Amitriptyline has good intestinal absorption, which is not affected by food or drink intake.
15. It can cause drowsiness, sedation, and is generally suitable for use at night.
16. There is no need to divide the dose when it comes to high doses.
17. Side effects of Amitriptyline include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention.
18. The side effects can decline over time or by reducing the dose of the medicine.
19. Amitriptyline can cause cardiovascular side effects, such as increased heart rate and postural hypotension.
20. It can also cause tremors in the hands, irritation, and anxiety initially.
21. Weight gain is a common side effect due to the antagonism of histamine H1 receptors in the brain.
22. Amitriptyline can also cause increased preference for carbohydrates.
23. The medicine can influence the sexual aspect, causing lack of sexual desire, problems with ejaculation, and difficulty with erection.
24. If a dose is forgotten, take it as soon as you remember, but never take two doses at once.
25. Amitriptyline should not be stopped abruptly, as it can lead to discontinuation syndrome.
26. The medication should be withdrawn gradually, reducing the dose over time.
27. Amitriptyline can be used in both adults and the elderly, but with caution in children under 12 years old.
28. In pregnant women, Amitriptyline is not the first antidepressant to be indicated, but it can be used in specific cases with a risk-benefit assessment.
29. The medicine can be used in breastfeeding women because the concentration in breast milk is very low.
30. Amitriptyline is available at a low price and is on the list of medicines offered by the SUS (public healthcare system).