Amitriptyline, sold under brand names Sarotex, Tryptizol, Lentizol, Elavil and Laroxyl is one of the most popular and widely used tricyclic antidepressant around the globe today. It’s main use is to treat depression but has also been prescribed for severe cases of migranes, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), anxiety and panic attacks. Like most TCAs, they’ve been tested on patients with schizophrenia but experiments on the effects has not been clearly demonstrated under controlled circumstances. Nevertheless, it serves thousands of people per day whether schizophrenic or not, in the treatment of depression.
Funnily enough though, there have been numerous occasions where patients consuming Amitriptyline for depression become suicidal. This only seems to happen with younger people, usually below 25 years of age, and within the first period of taking the drug. It is advised anyone prescribed with this drug be monitored as these serious side effects could cause one or more casualties.
Being a very potent antidepressant, it can also act as a strong muscle relaxant which can aid in neurological (nerve related) problems like paresthesia (pins and needles, numbness) and Multiple Sclerosis. Pretty much any form of pain caused by inflammation can be relieved from taking small dosages as little as 10mg per day.
Amitriptyline Side Effects (Click for more detailed info on this)
- Muscle spasm
- Coordination problems
- Problems with balance
- Weakness in arms, legs
- Constipation
- Difficulty urinating
- Urinating frequently
- Incontinence (not able to hold bladder)
- Depression, suicidal thoughts
- Loss of hearing
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Blurred vision
- Insomnia
As with most dibenzazepines there will be side effects, especially if you decide to self medicate or take more than prescribed. It should be noted that you can overdose on Amitriptyline so always consult your medical practitioner before decided to take, or increase your dosages.