Meds: A - E

Amitriptyline

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(ay-mee-TRIP-tuh-leen)

Definition | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs | Contact us

What is amitriptyline?

Amitriptyline (Elavil") is a medicine that is used to treat depression, chronic pain, and migraine headaches. It may be taken as a tablet or by injection.
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Special Instructions

  • It may take several weeks before benefits of taking this medication are seen.
  • Do not stop medication quickly or all at once. Weaning should be done slowly. Talk to your child's doctor before stopping this medicine.
  • Avoid use with alcohol, other depressants, antihistamines and certain pain medication because of the increased chance for side effects.
  • Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight. Wear sunscreen.
  • Taking this medication with food may decrease stomach upset.
  • It is important to go to all doctor appointments so that your child's doctor can make sure that your child is getting the right dose and it is not causing side effects.
  • Make sure you get the medicine refilled before the last dose is given.
  • Keep this medication in its original container, tightly closed.
  • Store away from heat or direct light.
  • Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle / package.
  • If too much medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call our child's doctor immediately.
  • Keep this medication out of the reach of children.

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If a Dose is Missed

For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and / or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
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Side Effects

Call your child's doctor if the following effects continue or are bothersome:
  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when rising quickly
  • Dry mouth and / or dry eyes
  • Stomachache
  • Constipation
  • Weakness
  • Blurred vision
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and / or skin)
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • Weight gain

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Warning Signs

Call your child's doctor if your child develops:
  • Skin rash or hives
  • Severe, unrelieved pain
  • Chest pain or feeling like the heart is racing
  • Extreme sedation
  • Blurry vision
  • Inability to urinate

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Contact us

For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.

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Patient Education Program V 5111 8/98;
rev. 9/05, 8/07