Amitriptyline Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Amitriptyline Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Amitriptyline HCl
- Elavil
Drug Class
- Tricyclic Antidepressant
Chemical Formula
C20H23N
Molecular Weight
277.41 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine leading to increased neurotransmitter levels in the brain
Indications
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Neuropathic pain
- Migraine prophylaxis
- Insomnia
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Capsule
Typical Dosage
- 25-150 mg daily, divided into multiple doses
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosage needs to be determined by a healthcare provider
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower doses may be required due to age-related decline in metabolism
Side Effects
- Sedation
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Urinary retention
- Weight gain
- Orthostatic hypotension
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to tricyclic antidepressants
- Recent myocardial infarction
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Caution advised, excreted in breast milk
Drug Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Cimetidine
- Anticholinergic drugs
Overdose Symptoms
- Seizures
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Coma
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed orally
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier
- Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via CYP2D6
- Excretion: Mainly via urine
Precautions
- Caution in individuals with a history of seizures
- May increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults
Warnings
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults
Others
- May take weeks to see full therapeutic effects