Elavil
Also see more information on Elavil Oral from the
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Brand name:
Elavil
Pronounced: ELL-uh-vil
Generic name: Amitriptyline hydrochloride
Why is Elavil prescribed?
Elavil is prescribed for the relief of symptoms of mental
depression. It is a member of the group of drugs called tricyclic
antidepressants. Some doctors also prescribe Elavil to treat
bulimia (an eating disorder), to control chronic pain, to prevent
migraine headaches, and to treat a pathological weeping and
laughing syndrome associated with multiple sclerosis.
Most important fact about Elavil
You may need to take Elavil regularly for several weeks before
it becomes fully effective. Do not skip doses, even if they seem to
make no difference or you feel you don't need them.
How should you take Elavil?
Take Elavil exactly as prescribed. You may experience side
effects, such as mild drowsiness, early in therapy. However, they
usually disappear after a few days. Beneficial effects may take as
long as 30 days to appear.
Elavil may cause dry mouth. Sucking a hard candy, chewing gum,
or melting bits of ice in your mouth can provide relief.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
If you take a single daily dose at bedtime, do not make up for
it in the morning. It may cause side effects during the day.
--Storage instructions...
Keep Elavil in a tightly closed container. Store at room
temperature. Protect from light and excessive heat.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Elavil.
Older adults are especially liable to certain side effects of
Elavil, including rapid heartbeat, constipation, dry mouth, blurred
vision, sedation, and confusion, and are in greater danger of
sustaining a fall.
-
More common side effects may include:
Blurred vision, bone marrow depression, bowel problems,
breast enlargement (in males and females), constipation, dry
mouth, hair loss, heart attack, high body temperature, problems
urinating, rash, seizure, stroke, swelling of the testicles,
water retention
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