Amitriptyline Antidepressant medication and Its Effects
October 11, 2011 at 1:21 pm Filed in:Antidepressant medication | Medicine
How does Elavil work?
Amitriptyline is a member of the group of medications which are called tricyclic antidepressants. These medications influence the nerve cells in the brain, particularly they increase the levels of serotonin and noradrenaline – neurotransmitters which are responsible for mood. Amitriptyline medication balances the levels of these neurotransmitters and deals with the depression and other disorders.
Side Effects
The common side reactions of Amitriptyline medication are dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, sleep disorders, blurred vision, and sexual disorders. Higher doses of this medication or the overdose can lead to the severe symptoms such as heart rate irregularities, chest pain, numbness, weakness, hallucinations, seizures, tremors, and some others. If such reactions occur, your doctor might recommend you a lower dose of Amitriptyline medication.
In some rare cases depression can become even worse which can lead to panic attacks and suicidal thoughts and behavior. This medication is prescribed for adults only. Moreover, the condition of the patients who are taking this medication should be monitored by the medical professional. The side reactions of this medication can get worse if it is taken together with alcohol, so avoid the consumption of alcohol during the treatment with Elavil.
Important information one should know about Elavil
There is no full information about the effects of Elavil during pregnancy but it is advisable not to start the treatment with this medication if you are pregnant. Patients under 24 years old might experience suicidal thinking and behavior, so this medicine should be taken under the strict supervision of the medical provider. The improvements are usually not seen at the initial stage of the treatment as it takes time to start its action. Don’t stop taking the medication even if you don’t feel the improvements because the desired effects will be seen over some period of time.
The dosages of Elavil medication
Elavil and generic Amitriptyline are available in the strengths of 25mg. This medication can be taken 1-3 times a day depending on the condition and its severity.