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Medications
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Elavil
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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.)
Elavil is produced by several manufacturers of generic medications. The brand-name version is no longer manufactured.
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.
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.
Some considerations for when and how to take Elavil include the following:
The dose of Elavil your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
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.)
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:
(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:
Elavil can potentially interact with a number of other medications (see Drug Interactions with Elavil for more information).
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
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.)
People who take too much Elavil may have overdose symptoms that could include:
An overdose can be very dangerous, so if you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
(Click Amitriptyline Overdose for more information.)
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.
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.
Elavil tablets are available in six strengths:
Generic versions of Elavil are licensed for sale. The brand-name version is no longer available (see Generic Elavil for more information).
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