What is amitriptyline and what is it for?

What is amitriptyline?

Amitriptyline is a drug, whichincreases the levels of serotonin andnoradrenalinein our system. It is a tricyclic antidepressant containing amitriptyline hydrochloride that is metabolized to nortriptyline, a component that is recommended for thetreatment of depressive symptoms and neuropathic pain.

On the other hand, amitriptyline is a medication administered orally, so its presentation is in coated tablets, withrecommended doses ranging from one to four times a day, depending on the medical indication. It is recommended that it be every day, at the same time.

Note: Due to its nature and mechanism of action, this drugrequires a prescriptionfor its acquisition.

What is amitriptyline for?

Amitriptyline is intended for the treatment ofchronic disorders, neuropathies and pain. We mention below the main uses of this medicine:

1. Depression

Due to the nature of the active ingredient of amitriptyline, it isused to reduce the symptoms of depressive disorders, raising the amounts of certain hormones necessary to maintain our mental balance.

To highlight: These hormones should be produced naturally and are serotonin and norepinephrine . (1)

2. Chronic and neuropathic pain

Studies carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the use of amitriptyline in the treatment of chronic and neuropathic pain have determined that its modulatory activity inhibits pain transmissions .

You should know: Amitriptyline is effectively considered an analgesic in this type of condition, in addition to being characterized by having fewer side effects during its use. (two)

3. Migraine

Migraine is a severe headache that is often accompanied by sensitivity to light and nausea. Among the treatments thatare usually indicated to reduce symptoms , is amitriptyline, which even allows a significant reduction in recurrences. (3)

4. Urinary incontinence

Incontinence is understood as the Loss of bladder control and amitriptyline is a medication that is usually used for treatments of this nature, thanks to the fact that it is a tricyclic antidepressant, having great efficacy in the lower urinary tract. (4)

Amitriptyline Side Effects

Every medicine has stipulated possible side effects, which can developduring its use in medical treatments. We mention below those of amitriptyline:

• Nausea, vomiting and dizziness.
• Drowsiness, weakness and tiredness.
• Headache, nightmares and constipation .
• Dry mouth.

Important: If side effects occur and do not disappear when stopping treatment, it is important to see a medical professional for information.

contraindications of amitriptyline

Contraindications are factors that we must take into account to Reduce the risk of developing adverse effectsduring medical treatment. We mention below those of amitriptyline:

• Do not indicate whether the patient has presented an allergy or hypersensitivity to any of the drug’s components.
• Do not indicate if there is a history of heart attacks or cardiovascular diseases.
• Do not indicate whether the patient has presented epileptic symptoms.
• Do not indicate if the patient has hepatic or renal insufficiency.
• Do not consume alcohol during medical treatment.

You should know: It is important to indicate the medical history, in order to assign an adequate and pertinent treatment.

Key Findings

• Amitriptyline is a drug considered part of the tricyclic antidepressants, which are recommended in doses of one to four times a day.
• Amitriptyline is also intended for patients with neuropathic pain and urinary retention problems.
• in patients, even if it is as pain management.
• If side effects appear during treatment with amitriptyline, it is important to seek medical attention for information.