Elavil

Part of a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants, Elavil is used for the treatment of depression. While it is not entirely clear how it works, the medicine is known to affect several chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and norepinephrine. Potential side effects of Elavil include dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness. The drug comes in tablet form and is usually taken by mouth one to three times daily.
 

What Is Elavil?

Elavil® (amitriptyline hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that is used to treat depression.
 
(Click What Is Elavil Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes It?

Elavil is produced by several manufacturers of generic medications. The brand-name version is no longer manufactured.
 

How Does Elavil Work?

Elavil belongs to a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants. It is not entirely clear how the drug works. It does affect several chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and norepinephrine. Elavil may allow these chemicals to stay in the brain longer, which can help with depression symptoms.
 

Effects of Elavil

Studies have shown that Elavil is effective for the treatment of depression. It may also be used "off-label" to help relieve chronic pain and to prevent migraine headaches. Elavil can also help with bedwetting, ADHD, fibromyalgia, and bulimia. The medicine is also effective at helping people quit smoking.
 

When and How to Take It

Some considerations for when and how to take Elavil include the following:
 
 
  • The medication comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth one to three times daily.
     
  • You can take Elavil with or without food. If the medication upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
     
  • The medication should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
     
  • For Elavil to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Dosing Information

The dose of Elavil your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • The medical condition being treated
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may be taking.
     
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Elavil Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Elavil

As with any medicine, side effects can occur with Elavil. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the drug well. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
The most common side effects include:
 
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Constipation
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Dry mouth.
     
(Click Elavil Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report to your healthcare provider.)
 
You can also read about specific side effects in the following eMedTV articles:
 

Drug Interactions

Elavil can potentially interact with a number of other medications (see Drug Interactions with Elavil for more information).
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Elavil?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see Amitriptyline and Pregnancy)
  • Are breastfeeding 
  • Drink alcohol regularly
  • Will be undergoing surgery.
     
Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Precautions and Warnings With Elavil for more information, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

People who take too much Elavil may have overdose symptoms that could include:
 
  • Changes in heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
  • Very low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Seizures
  • Sleepiness or fainting
  • Confusion
  • Restlessness
  • Seeing things that are not really there (hallucinations)
  • Dilated (wide open) pupils
  • Agitation
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Loss of life.
     
An overdose can be very dangerous, so if you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Amitriptyline Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Elavil Be Stored?

Elavil should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
 
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

If you do not take your Elavil as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
 

Available Strengths

Elavil tablets are available in six strengths:
 
  • Elavil 10 mg
  • Elavil 25 mg
  • Elavil 50 mg
  • Elavil 75 mg
  • Elavil 100 mg
  • Elavil 150 mg.
     

Generic Elavil

Generic versions of Elavil are licensed for sale. The brand-name version is no longer available (see Generic Elavil for more information).
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;