Part of a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants, Elavil is used for the treatment of depression. While it is not entirely clear how Elavil works, it is known that the medicine affects several chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and norepinephrine. There are potential side effects of Elavil, including dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness. The drug comes in a tablet form that is usually taken by mouth one to three times daily.
Elavil is manufactured by several manufacturers of generic medications. The brand name version of Elavil is no longer manufactured.
Elavil belongs to a class of medications called
tricyclic antidepressants. It is not entirely clear how Elavil works. Elavil does affect several chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and norepinephrine. It is thought that maybe Elavil allows these chemicals to stay in the brain longer, which can help with depression symptoms.
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.
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