Amitriptyline (Elavil)
Amitriptyline (Elavil) explained
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is a tricyclic antidepressant used for depression and off‑label for neuropathic pain and migraine prophylaxis; anticholinergic and sedative effects are prominent.
FDA ApprovedAmitriptyline (Elavil) helps treat
• Major depressive disorder
• Neuropathic pain (off‑label)
• Migraine prophylaxis (off‑label)
• Insomnia (off‑label)
additional medications
• SNRIs for pain (duloxetine)
• SSRIs/SNRIs for depression
• Gabapentin/pregabalin for neuropathic pain
medication risks
• Suicidality warning in young people
• Cardiac conduction abnormalities
• Anticholinergic burden
• Orthostatic hypotension
side effects
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Weight gain
• Blurred vision
FAQs
Q: What is amitriptyline used for?A: Depression; off‑label for pain and migraine prevention.
Q: Why sedating?
A: Strong antihistamine and anticholinergic activity.
Q: Cardiac risk?
A: TCAs can affect heart rhythm—use caution in cardiac disease.
Q: Weight gain?
A: Possible; monitor lifestyle and diet.
Q: Overdose?
A: Potentially dangerous—store securely.
