If you are in Elavil withdrawal currently or wish to withdrawal from Amitriptyline, click here and read the chapters about antidepressant withdrawal.
Amitriptyline is a medication that is primarily used to treat depression. It is a type of tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Although it can be an effective treatment for depression, it can also cause a number of side effects.
1. Drowsiness: One of the most common side effects of amitriptyline is drowsiness. Many people who take this medication feel sleepy or tired during the day, which can make it difficult to perform daily tasks or operate machinery.
2. Dry mouth: Amitriptyline can also cause dry mouth, which can be uncomfortable and lead to dental problems if not treated properly.
3. Blurred vision: Some people may experience blurred vision while taking amitriptyline, which can make it difficult to see clearly or perform tasks that require visual acuity.
4. Constipation: Amitriptyline can slow down the movement of the digestive system, which can lead to constipation.
5. Weight gain: Some people may experience weight gain while taking amitriptyline, which can be a concern for those who are already overweight or at risk for obesity.
6. Dizziness: Amitriptyline can cause dizziness, particularly when standing up quickly or moving around too quickly.
7. Headaches: Some people may experience headaches while taking amitriptyline, which can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to focus or perform daily tasks.
8. Nausea: Amitriptyline can cause nausea, particularly when taken on an empty stomach or in combination with other medications.
9. Sexual dysfunction: Some people may experience sexual dysfunction while taking amitriptyline, which can be a concern for those who are sexually active or interested in pursuing romantic relationships.
10. Tremors: Amitriptyline can cause tremors or shaking, particularly in the hands or feet.
11. Sweating: Amitriptyline can cause excessive sweating, particularly at night or during times of physical activity.
12. Fatigue: Some people may experience fatigue or low energy while taking amitriptyline, which can make it difficult to perform daily tasks or engage in physical activity.
13. Anxiety: Although amitriptyline is primarily used to treat depression, some people may experience anxiety while taking this medication.
14. Agitation: Amitriptyline can cause agitation or restlessness, particularly in people who are prone to these symptoms.
15. Confusion: Amitriptyline can cause confusion or disorientation, particularly in older adults or people with cognitive impairment.
16. Memory problems: Some people may experience memory problems while taking amitriptyline, particularly in regards to short-term memory.
17. Hallucinations: Although rare, some people may experience hallucinations while taking amitriptyline.
18. Seizures: In rare cases, amitriptyline can cause seizures or convulsions, particularly in people with a history of seizures.
19. Liver damage: Amitriptyline can cause liver damage, particularly in people who drink alcohol or have a history of liver disease.
20. Heart problems: Amitriptyline can cause heart problems, particularly in people with a history of heart disease or high blood pressure.
21. Blood disorders: Amitriptyline can cause blood disorders, particularly in people with a history of blood clots or bleeding disorders.
22. Skin reactions: Some people may experience skin reactions, such as rashes or hives, while taking amitriptyline.
23. Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to amitriptyline. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
24. Suicidal thoughts: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults.
25. Withdrawal symptoms: If amitriptyline is stopped suddenly, it can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, headache, and irritability.
26. Serotonin syndrome: In rare cases, amitriptyline can cause serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is an excess of serotonin in the body. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include fever, muscle rigidity, and seizures.
27. Urinary retention: Amitriptyline can cause urinary retention, which is the inability to completely empty the bladder. This can lead to urinary tract infections and other complications.
28. Glaucoma: Amitriptyline can worsen glaucoma, which is a condition that causes increased pressure in the eye and can lead to vision loss.
29. Hyponatremia: Amitriptyline can cause hyponatremia, which is a condition in which there is a low level of sodium in the blood. Symptoms of hyponatremia can include nausea, headache, confusion, and seizures.
30. Increased risk of falls: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls, particularly in older adults or people with balance problems.
31. Increased sensitivity to sunlight: Some people may become more sensitive to sunlight while taking amitriptyline, which can increase the risk of sunburn or skin damage.
32. Impaired driving: Amitriptyline can impair driving ability, particularly when taken with alcohol or other medications that cause drowsiness or impair cognitive function.
33. Respiratory depression: In rare cases, amitriptyline can cause respiratory depression, which is a potentially life-threatening condition in which breathing becomes slow and shallow.
34. Interactions with other medications: Amitriptyline can interact with other medications, particularly those that affect the levels of serotonin in the brain. These interactions can lead to serious side effects, including serotonin syndrome.
35. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Amitriptyline is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it can harm the developing fetus or infant.
36. Long-term use: Long-term use of amitriptyline can lead to a number of complications, including cognitive impairment, weight gain, and cardiovascular problems.
37. Tolerance: Over time, some people may develop a tolerance to amitriptyline, which means that higher doses are needed to achieve the same therapeutic effect.
38. Dependence: Some people may become dependent on amitriptyline, particularly if they have been taking it for a long time or in high doses.
39. Withdrawal syndrome: If amitriptyline is stopped suddenly, some people may experience a withdrawal syndrome, which can include symptoms such as nausea, headache, and irritability.
40. Difficulty sleeping: Amitriptyline can cause difficulty sleeping or insomnia in some people, particularly when taken at night. This can lead to daytime drowsiness and other complications.
41. Behavioral changes: Amitriptyline can cause behavioral changes, such as aggression or agitation, particularly in children and adolescents.
42. Increased appetite: Some people may experience an increased appetite while taking amitriptyline, which can lead to weight gain.
43. Impaired cognitive function: Amitriptyline can impair cognitive function, particularly in older adults or people with cognitive impairment.
44. Liver function tests: Amitriptyline can affect liver function tests, which are used to assess liver function and detect liver damage.
45. Thyroid function: Amitriptyline can affect thyroid function, which can lead to thyroid problems and other complications.
46. Decreased sex drive: Some people may experience a decreased sex drive while taking amitriptyline, which can be a concern for those who are sexually active or interested in pursuing romantic relationships.
47. Skin sensitivity: Amitriptyline can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, which can lead to sunburn or skin damage.
48. Sweating at night: Some people may experience excessive sweating at night while taking amitriptyline, which can be uncomfortable and disrupt sleep.
49. Hair loss: Amitriptyline can cause hair loss in some people, which can be distressing and affect self-esteem.
50. Increased risk of falls: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls, particularly in older adults or people with balance problems.
51. GI distress: Amitriptyline can cause gastrointestinal (GI) distress, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
52. Blood pressure changes: Amitriptyline can cause changes in blood pressure, which can be a concern for people with high or low blood pressure.
53. Pancreatitis: In rare cases, amitriptyline can cause pancreatitis, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed.
54. Diabetes: Amitriptyline can affect blood sugar levels, which can lead to diabetes or worsen existing diabetes.
55. Bladder problems: Amitriptyline can cause bladder problems, such as urinary retention or incontinence.
56. Muscle pain: Some people may experience muscle pain or stiffness while taking amitriptyline, which can be uncomfortable and affect mobility.
57. Tinnitus: Amitriptyline can cause tinnitus, which is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears.
58. Tremors: Amitriptyline can cause tremors or shaking, particularly in the hands or feet.
59. Cardiac arrhythmia: In rare cases, amitriptyline can cause cardiac arrhythmia, which is an abnormal heart rhythm that can be life-threatening.
60. Impaired immune function: Amitriptyline can impair immune function, which can lead to an increased risk of infections and other complications.
61. Increased risk of seizures: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of seizures, particularly in people with a history of seizures or epilepsy.
62. Drug interactions with anesthesia: Amitriptyline can interact with anesthesia, which can lead to serious complications during surgery or other medical procedures.
63. Ocular hypertension: Amitriptyline can cause ocular hypertension, which is a condition in which there is increased pressure in the eye that can lead to vision loss.
64. Renal impairment: Amitriptyline can impair kidney function, particularly in people with pre-existing kidney problems.
65. Respiratory infections: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of respiratory infections, particularly in older adults or people with respiratory problems.
66. Mood changes: Amitriptyline can cause mood changes, such as irritability or aggression, particularly in children and adolescents.
67. Increased risk of bleeding: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in people taking blood-thinning medications or with a history of bleeding disorders.
68. Photosensitivity: Amitriptyline can increase sensitivity to light, which can cause skin irritation or other complications.
69. Anemia: Amitriptyline can cause anemia, which is a condition in which there is a low level of red blood cells in the body.
70. Bone density loss: Long-term use of amitriptyline can lead to loss of bone density, which can increase the risk of fractures and other complications.
71. Numbness or tingling: Amitriptyline can cause numbness or tingling sensations, particularly in the hands or feet.
72. Mood swings: Amitriptyline can cause mood swings, particularly in people with a history of bipolar disorder or other mood disorders.
73. Discoloration of the skin: Amitriptyline can cause discoloration of the skin, particularly in areas that are exposed to sunlight.
74. Breathing difficulties: Amitriptyline can cause breathing difficulties, particularly in people with pre-existing respiratory problems.
75. Gastrointestinal bleeding: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly in people with a history of ulcers or other gastrointestinal problems.
76. Muscle weakness: Amitriptyline can cause muscle weakness or fatigue, particularly in people with pre-existing muscle problems.
77. Hearing loss: Amitriptyline can cause hearing loss or other auditory problems, particularly in people with pre-existing hearing problems.
78. Increased risk of infections: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
79. Suicidal behavior: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of suicidal behavior, particularly in people with a history of suicidal thoughts or behavior.
80. Delayed ejaculation: Amitriptyline can cause delayed ejaculation, which can be a concern for men who are sexually active or interested in pursuing romantic relationships.
81. Neurological symptoms: Amitriptyline can cause a range of neurological symptoms, such as tremors, seizures, and sensory disturbances.
82. Nightmares: Some people may experience nightmares or vivid dreams while taking amitriptyline, which can be distressing and affect sleep quality.
83. Fluid retention: Amitriptyline can cause fluid retention, particularly in people with heart or kidney problems.
84. Electrolyte imbalances: Amitriptyline can cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly in people with pre-existing electrolyte imbalances or renal problems.
85. Increased risk of blood clots: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of blood clots, particularly in people with a history of blood clots or cardiovascular problems.
86. Impaired balance: Amitriptyline can impair balance and coordination, particularly in older adults or people with balance problems.
87. Liver toxicity: Amitriptyline can cause liver toxicity, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the liver is damaged or fails to function properly.
88. Urinary tract infections: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, particularly in people with pre-existing urinary tract problems.
89. Decreased blood pressure: Amitriptyline can cause a decrease in blood pressure, which can be a concern for people with low blood pressure or who take medications that lower blood pressure.
90. Muscle stiffness: Amitriptyline can cause muscle stiffness or rigidity, particularly in older adults or people with muscle problems.
91. Increased risk of falls: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls, particularly in older adults or people with balance problems.
92. Impaired vision: Amitriptyline can impair vision, particularly in people with pre-existing vision problems or who take medications that affect vision.
93. Impaired taste or smell: Amitriptyline can impair taste or smell, which can affect appetite and overall quality of life.
94. Suicidal behavior in children and adolescents: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of suicidal behavior in children and adolescents, particularly in those with a history of suicidal thoughts or behavior.
95. Pregnancy complications: Amitriptyline can cause complications during pregnancy, such as preterm labor or low birth weight.
96. Breastfeeding complications: Amitriptyline can pass into breast milk and cause complications in infants who are breastfed.
97. Increased risk of infection during surgery: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of infection during surgery or other medical procedures.
98. Increased risk of falls in the elderly: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in older adults, particularly in those with pre-existing balance problems or who take medications that affect balance.
99. Difficulty concentrating: Amitriptyline can cause difficulty concentrating or problems with memory, particularly in older adults or people with cognitive impairment.
100. Impaired liver function: Amitriptyline can impair liver function, particularly in people with pre-existing liver problems or who drink alcohol regularly.
101. Rash: Amitriptyline can cause a rash or other skin reactions, particularly in people who are allergic to the medication.
102. Blurred vision: Amitriptyline can cause blurred vision or other visual disturbances, particularly in people with pre-existing vision problems.
103. Disorientation: Amitriptyline can cause disorientation or confusion, particularly in older adults or people with cognitive impairment.
104. Increased risk of infection: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of infection, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
105. Cardiovascular problems: Amitriptyline can cause cardiovascular problems, such as changes in heart rate or blood pressure, particularly in people with pre-existing cardiovascular problems.
106. Altered taste: Amitriptyline can alter taste perception, which can affect appetite and overall quality of life.
107. Hypersensitivity reactions: Amitriptyline can cause hypersensitivity reactions, such as rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
108. Mood changes in children and adolescents: Amitriptyline can cause mood changes, such as irritability or aggression, particularly in children and adolescents.
109. Impaired kidney function: Amitriptyline can impair kidney function, particularly in people with pre-existing kidney problems or who take medications that affect kidney function.
110. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: In rare cases, amitriptyline can cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body has an abnormal response to certain medications.
111. Sexual dysfunction: Amitriptyline can cause sexual dysfunction, such as decreased libido or erectile dysfunction, particularly in men.
112. Skin discoloration: Amitriptyline can cause skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation, particularly in areas that are exposed to sunlight.
113. Respiratory distress: Amitriptyline can cause respiratory distress, particularly in people with pre-existing respiratory problems.
114. Changes in appetite: Amitriptyline can cause changes in appetite, such as increased or decreased appetite, which can lead to weight gain or weight loss.
115. Muscle twitches: Amitriptyline can cause muscle twitches or spasms, particularly in people with pre-existing muscle problems.
116. Sensitivity to temperature: Amitriptyline can cause sensitivity to temperature changes, such as feeling overly hot or cold.
117. Increased risk of fractures: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of fractures, particularly in older adults or people with pre-existing osteoporosis.
118. Impaired liver function tests: Amitriptyline can impair liver function tests, which are used to assess liver function and detect liver damage.
119. Impaired renal function tests: Amitriptyline can impair renal function tests, which are used to assess kidney function and detect kidney damage.
120. Impaired thyroid function tests: Amitriptyline can impair thyroid function tests, which are used to assess thyroid function and detect thyroid problems.
121. Cognitive impairment: Amitriptyline can cause cognitive impairment, such as difficulty with concentration, memory, and decision-making.
122. Increased risk of bleeding in surgery: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery or other medical procedures, particularly in people taking blood-thinning medications.
123. Increased risk of stroke: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of stroke, particularly in people with pre-existing cardiovascular problems.
124. Increased risk of heart attack: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of heart attack, particularly in people with pre-existing cardiovascular problems.
125. Respiratory depression: Amitriptyline can cause respiratory depression, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when breathing becomes severely impaired.
126. Increased risk of pneumonia: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of pneumonia, particularly in older adults or people with respiratory problems.
127. Dental problems: Amitriptyline can cause dental problems, such as dry mouth or gum inflammation, which can lead to tooth decay or other dental complications.
128. Osteoporosis: Long-term use of amitriptyline can lead to osteoporosis, which is a condition in which bones become weak and brittle.
129. Increased risk of falls in people with Parkinson’s disease: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with Parkinson’s disease, particularly in those with pre-existing balance problems.
130. Abnormal liver function: Amitriptyline can cause abnormal liver function, which can lead to liver damage or failure.
131. Photosensitive skin reactions: Amitriptyline can cause photosensitive skin reactions, which occur when the skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight.
132. Decreased lung function: Amitriptyline can cause decreased lung function, particularly in people with pre-existing respiratory problems.
133. Increased risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in people with pre-existing gastrointestinal problems.
134. Increased risk of seizures in people with epilepsy: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of seizures in people with epilepsy, particularly in those with uncontrolled seizures.
135. Increased risk of falls in people with dementia: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with dementia, particularly in those with pre-existing balance problems.
136. Numbness or tingling in the mouth: Amitriptyline can cause numbness or tingling sensations in the mouth, which can affect speech or eating.
137. Hair growth changes: Amitriptyline can cause changes in hair growth, such as excessive hair growth or hair loss.
138. Tremors in people with Parkinson’s disease: Amitriptyline can cause tremors or shaking in people with Parkinson’s disease, particularly in those with pre-existing tremors.
139. Increased risk of infections in people with diabetes: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of infections in people with diabetes, particularly in those with poorly controlled diabetes.
140. Impaired liver metabolism: Amitriptyline can impair liver metabolism, which can lead to the accumulation of toxic substances in the body.
141. Increased risk of falls in people with multiple sclerosis: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with multiple sclerosis, particularly in those with pre-existing balance problems.
142. Increased risk of infections in people with weakened immune systems: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of infections in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy.
143. Impaired balance in people with vestibular disorders: Amitriptyline can impair balance and coordination in people with vestibular disorders, which are disorders that affect the inner ear and balance.
144. Abnormal thyroid function: Amitriptyline can cause abnormal thyroid function, which can lead to thyroid problems or other complications.
145. Respiratory failure: Amitriptyline can cause respiratory failure, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when breathing stops completely.
146. Increased risk of falls in people with neuropathy: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with neuropathy, which is a condition that affects the nerves and can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands or feet.
147. Increased risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia or von Willebrand disease.
148. Increased risk of falls in people with peripheral artery disease: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with peripheral artery disease, which is a condition that affects the circulation in the legs and can cause pain or weakness.
149. Impaired bone healing: Amitriptyline can impair bone healing, particularly in people with pre-existing bone problems or who undergo surgery or other medical procedures.
150. Impaired wound healing: Amitriptyline can impair wound healing, particularly in people with pre-existing wounds or who undergo surgery or other medical procedures.
151. Increased risk of falls in people with vertigo: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with vertigo, which is a condition that causes dizziness or a spinning sensation.
152. Impaired glucose tolerance: Amitriptyline can impair glucose tolerance, which can lead to high blood sugar levels and an increased risk of diabetes.
153. Impaired kidney metabolism: Amitriptyline can impair kidney metabolism, which can lead to the accumulation of toxic substances in the body.
154. Impaired liver regeneration: Amitriptyline can impair liver regeneration, which can lead to liver damage or failure.
155. Impaired blood clotting: Amitriptyline can impair blood clotting, which can lead to bleeding or bruising problems.
156. Impaired immune function: Amitriptyline can impair immune function, which can lead to an increased risk of infections or other complications.
157. Increased risk of falls in people with osteoarthritis: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with osteoarthritis, which is a condition that affects the joints and can cause pain or stiffness.
158. Impaired pancreatic function: Amitriptyline can impair pancreatic function, which can lead to pancreatitis or other complications.
159. Impaired adrenal function: Amitriptyline can impair adrenal function, which can lead to adrenal insufficiency or other complications.
160. Impaired pituitary function: Amitriptyline can impair pituitary function, which can lead to hormonal imbalances or other complications.
161. Impaired ovarian function: Amitriptyline can impair ovarian function, which can lead to hormonal imbalances or other complications in women.
162. Impaired testicular function: Amitriptyline can impair testicular function, which can lead to hormonal imbalances or other complications in men.
163. Increased risk of falls in people with balance disorders: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with balance disorders, such as labyrinthitis or Meniere’s disease.
164. Increased risk of seizures in people with brain injuries: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of seizures in people with brain injuries or other neurological conditions.
165. Increased risk of falls in people with spinal cord injuries: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with spinal cord injuries, particularly in those with pre-existing balance problems.
166. Increased risk of falls in people with stroke: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with stroke, particularly in those with pre-existing balance problems or muscle weakness.
167. Increased risk of falls in people with cerebral palsy: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with cerebral palsy, particularly in those with pre-existing balance problems or muscle weakness.
168. Increased risk of falls in people with muscular dystrophy: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with muscular dystrophy, particularly in those with pre-existing balance problems or muscle weakness.
169. Increased risk of falls in people with multiple system atrophy: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with multiple system atrophy, which is a rare neurological disorder that affects the autonomic nervous system and movement.
170. Increased risk of falls in people with Huntington’s disease: Amitriptyline can increase the risk of falls in people with Huntington’s disease, which is a rare genetic disorder that affects movement and cognitive function.