- Used to treat major depressive disorder
- Also used in the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and ADHD
- Sometimes used to treat migraines and insomnia
- Used in the treatment of eating disorders, nocturnal enuresis, irritable bowel syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, etc.
Elavil is the brand name of the generic drug Amitriptyline by Merck. Elavil is available as tablets in strengths of 10, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 150 mg. It is also available for intramuscular use as a sterile solution.
Indications
Elavil is used to treat major depression disorder and it is also prescribed for ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and many other ailments.
Action
This drug is an SNRI – or a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and it acts on these in order to stabilize the chemical balance in the brain and to reduce the mood swings and any depressive feeling. It does not act on the central nervous system but acts by means of a sedative effect. It interferes with the unbalanced chemical secretion and most likely, this is the way it brings about balance and better moods in people.
Side Effects
Amitriptyline use could have side effects in some people and the main ones are a dry mouth and a drowsy feeling all the time. There could be weight gain and bowel changes, blurred vision, insomnia, a dizzy feeling, sometimes fainting and enhanced nervousness. There could also be changes in the eating patterns and you could suffer from stiff muscles or tinnitus. In some people, there could be hypotension. Some people experience changes in sexual ability or urinary retention. More serious side effects would include irregular heartbeat, confusion, enlargement of breasts in men and women, high fever, seizures and suicidal tendencies. In some, the eyes and skin turn yellow and for some women, there could be an abnormal amount of milk that is produced. The hands and feet could experience tingling or turn numb and there could be sleep paralysis. Some people experience very easy bruising of the skin and more than usual bleeding.
Caution
Make sure you inform your doctor in great detail about your medical history, what ailments or conditions you have and what medications you are taking for them. Also tell him about any allergies that you might have. If you have a heart condition or you are suffering from diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol or any kidney or bladder disease, you must be sure to inform the doctor. Certain conditions could get aggravated with this drug which is why doctors want to know what you are taking to prevent drug reactions and what you are suffering from so he can prescribe with care. The doctor should also be told if there is a family history of the condition or any related conditions so he can assess if it is genetic.
Contraindications
This drug should be avoided by pregnant and nursing women. It should ideally not be prescribed for older people it tends to increase the risk of cognitive degeneration as well as death. If there is any other ailment, the doctor must be kept informed of any developments.