AMITRIPTYLINE Flashcards
What is the common indication for Amitriptyline?
Answer: Amitriptyline is commonly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, neuropathic pain, and other conditions.
What is the normal maintenance dose for Amitriptyline?
Answer: The normal maintenance dose for Amitriptyline ranges from 75 to 150 mg per day, taken in divided doses.
What is the drug class of Amitriptyline?
Answer: Amitriptyline belongs to the class of drugs known as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).
What are the possible optimization issues when taking Amitriptyline?
Answer: Possible optimization issues with Amitriptyline include the risk of overdose due to its narrow therapeutic index, and the potential for drug interactions with other medications. Dose adjustments may also be necessary based on individual patient factors such as age, weight, and liver function.
What should pharmacists lookout for when patients take Amitriptyline?
Answer: Pharmacists should monitor patients for signs of overdose, including drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty breathing. They should also be aware of potential drug interactions and counsel patients on the importance of adhering to the dosing schedule.
What is the normal initial dose for Amitriptyline?
Answer: The normal initial dose for Amitriptyline ranges from 25 to 50 mg per day, taken in divided doses. The dose may be increased gradually over several weeks to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
What is the dose of Amitriptyline indicated for neuropathic pain ?
10-25mg daily to be taken in the evening. You can increase dose every 3-7days. Max per daily dose is 75mg
List the common side effects of Amitriptyline
Anticholinergic syndrome, drowsiness, QT
interval elongation
List the symptoms of overdosed with Amitriptyline
Dry mouth, coma, hypotension, hypothermia, convulsion, respiratory failure, arthymia
Patient and carer advice for those on Amitriptyline
Drowsiness may affect the performance of skilled task. Effects of alcohol enhanced
