Amitriptyline

What Is Amitriptyline? 

Amitriptyline belongs to a class of medication known as tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). 

Originally developed as an antidepressant, the pain relieving properties of the medication mean it is now used to treat several conditions such as  major depressive disorder, neuropathic pain and for migraine or tension headache prevention. 

Who Can Use Amitriptyline?

In the United Kingdom, Amitriptyline pill is a prescription only medication (POM.) This means it should only be taken by the person it has been prescribed for. 

Doctors or nurses may prescribe Amitriptyline to adults to help them manage neuropathic pain, migraines, tension headaches, nerve pain or depression.

However, clinicians may exercise additional caution when prescribing Amitriptyline to individuals with the following conditions, due to potential risks and the need for close monitoring:

• Individuals with epilepsy – Amitriptyline can lower the threshold for seizures amongst epileptics. 
• Individuals with Glaucoma – Glaucoma can increase intraocular pressure.
• Diabetics – Amitriptyline can affect blood sugar levels. 
• Anyone with urinary retention or prostate enlargement.
• Anyone with a history of mental health issues.
• Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding. 

Amitriptyline should not be used by:

• Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to Amitriptyline drug or similar drugs in the past. 
• Those with heart conditions such as a recent myocardial infarction, an arrhythmia or a heart block.
• Anyone with a severe liver disease or impaired hepatic function.
• Anyone with acute porphyria. 
• Anyone taking, or having recently have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Possible Side Effects Of Amitriptyline

Like all medications, patients taking Amitriptyline tablet may experience some side effects. Side effects will be less prominent at lower doses and may subside as the body gets use to the medication.

Common side effects of Amitriptyline include: 

• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Difficulty with urination
• Headaches

Occasionally there may be more serious side effects with Amitriptyline. Contact a healthcare provider as a matter of urgency if you experience any of the following side effects:

• A fast or irregular heartbeat
• The whites of your eyes turn yellow or your skin turns yellow. 
• You begin to feel confused, weak or have muscle cramps.
• You begin to experience pain in your eye, swelling or redness of the eye or changes in eyesight. 
• You have weakness on one side of your body, trouble speaking or thinking or loss of balance.

Amitriptyline can sometimes cause very serious allergic reactions. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction to Amitriptyline includes: 

• Swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue
• Struggling with breathing or wheezing or tightening of the throat
• Skin, tongue or lips turning blue

Precautions and Warnings with Amitriptyline

In addition to warnings discussed above (notably cardiac effects, seizure risks, anticholinergic effects, and issues with patients with impaired hepatic function) the following issues exist with Amitriptyline: 

• Suicide risks – There is an increased risk of suicide in young adults, particularly in the early stages of treatment. Patients should be monitored in the early stages of treatment. 
• Risks With Use In Under 18s – Amitriptyline should not be used to treat depression in under 18s due to a lack of established safety and efficacy details. 
• WIthdrawal Risks – Abrupt withdrawal of Amitriptyline may cause withdrawal symptoms. Gently tapering of Amitriptyline is preferred. 

To ensure your healthcare provider can make the best decisions for you, it’s essential you share all information regarding your medical history, family medical history, medication history and any other relevant details. 

Where to buy Amitriptyline online ?

Amitriptyline is a prescription only medication available either on the NHS or privately. 

If you’re buying privately, either online or in person it’s vital you’re purchasing from a reputable source such as Meds for Less. If you’re buying the medication privately, you may also consider the amitriptyline cost. 

At Meds for Less the price of Amitriptyline 10mg starts £20.99.

Amitriptyline should be dispensed by a registered UK pharmacy and arrive with a dispensing label with the pharmacy details on the rear of the box. You should also ensure your product is arriving with the blister packaging intact. 

If you have any concerns regarding the authenticity of medication, you should not take it.