Amitriptyline is primarily used to treat symptoms of depression. It belongs to the class of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants and works by increasing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which help maintain mental balance and regulate mood[2][4][6].
In addition to its primary use, amitriptyline is also prescribed for a variety of other conditions:
- Neuropathic pain (pain caused by nerve damage), including pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and spinal problems[3][1]
- Prevention of migraine headaches and chronic tension-type headaches[1][2]
- Nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) in children, when other treatments have failed[1]
- Post-herpetic neuralgia (nerve pain after shingles)[2]
- Eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia nervosa[2][1]
- Insomnia and sleep disorders (off-label)[5][1]
- Anxiety and agitation (off-label)[5][1]
- Irritable bowel syndrome and other pain-related conditions (off-label)[1]
Doctors may also consider amitriptyline for additional off-label uses, including bipolar disorder, ADHD, and certain other psychotic disorders[5].
References
- [1] Amitriptyline: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action – DrugBank
- [2] Amitriptyline: MedlinePlus Drug Information
- [3] Amitriptyline | Side-effects, uses, time to work – Versus Arthritis
- [4] Amitriptyline (Amitid, Elavil, Endep) – Uses, Side Effects, and More
- [5] Amitriptyline Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings – Drugs.com
- [6] Amitriptyline: Uses & Side Effects – Cleveland Clinic