Amitripyline

Question 1

what is Amitriptyline?

Answer 1

Noradrenaline/5HT reuptake inhibitor

Question 2

what is Amitriptyline used for

Answer 2

is a sedating antidepressant, and so can aide sleep patterns

Question 3

what is the suggested mechanism for Amitriptyline

Answer 3

is not clear, but it is believed that, its metabolite nortriptyline inhibits the membrane pump mechanism responsible for uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin in adrenergic and serotonergic neurons. This causes there to be a potentiation or prolonging of neuronal activity, since reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin is important in termination of transmitting activity.

Question 4

how long does it take for the antidepressant to work

Answer 4

As with other antidepressants, several weeks of therapy may be required in order to realise its full clinical benefit