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Amitriptyline

Brand names: Elavil (brand discontinued)

Amitriptyline is an older antidepressant. At low doses it's often used to prevent migraines and treat nerve pain and poor sleep.

Brand namesElavil (brand discontinued)
Type of medicineTricyclic antidepressant
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

Low-dose use for pain and migraine is off-label but common.

What it's used for

  • Depression
  • Off-label: migraine prevention, nerve pain, fibromyalgia, and IBS

How to take it

  • Take it at bedtime because it's sedating.
  • Don't stop suddenly.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Sleepiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Weight gain
  • Dizziness when standing
Call 911Thoughts of suicide or harming yourself. Call or text 988 any time.
Call 911Fainting or a fast, irregular heartbeat
Call 911Agitation, fever, sweating, muscle twitching or stiffness, fast heartbeat, and confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)
Call your provider todayTrouble peeing or confusion
Call your provider todayEye pain or blurry vision

Warnings

  • Overdose is very dangerous to the heart. Keep it away from children and anyone at risk of self-harm.
  • Not for people recovering from a recent heart attack.
  • Older adults are more likely to become confused or fall.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.
  • Some SSRIs (fluoxetine, paroxetine) and bupropion raise its level.
  • Alcohol and sedating medicines add to drowsiness.
  • Other medicines that affect heart rhythm add to that risk.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider about benefits and risks.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

An amitriptyline overdose is an emergency that can quickly affect the heart. Call 911 right away. You can also call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.