What Is Elavil Used For?

Some people may wonder, "What is Elavil used for?" Elavil is licensed for the treatment of depression, though there are also several "off-label" uses for the medicine. A few off-label Elavil uses include the treatment of anxiety disorders, bulimia, ADHD, and fibromyalgia. Elavil is not recommended for use in people less than 12 years old, as it has not been thoroughly studied in children.

 

Uses of Elavil: An Overview

 Elavil® (amitriptyline hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that is licensed to treat depression.
 
Using Elavil for Depression
Depression is more than just "feeling sad." Common symptoms of depression include:
 
  • Changes in sleep (sleeping too much or not enough)
  • Eating too much or too little (and weight gain or weight loss)
  • Having little interest in things that you used to enjoy
  • Physical pain
  • Feeling hopeless or worthless
  • Suicidal thoughts.
     
During extensive clinical trials, Elavil has been proven to help people with depression. However, it is important to keep in mind that antidepressants (including Elavil), often take several weeks to begin working. Sometimes, other people will notice an improvement in your depression symptoms before you do. Often, the physical symptoms of depression (such as pain or changes in sleep) will improve first, sometimes within the first few weeks of treatment. It usually takes at least four to six weeks before significant changes in mood occur. It is important to give Elavil a chance to work before becoming discouraged.
 
Counseling and therapy (psychotherapy for depression) are often used along with antidepressant medication to treat depression. Ask your healthcare provider if counseling or therapy would be good options for you.
 
(What Is Elavil Used For? Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;