What is Elavil used for?

While most people feel sad or depressed at times, this is considered a normal reaction to life struggles. However there is some that suffer from intense sadness, which includes feeling helpless, hopeless, and worthless. This can last for many days to weeks. And it keeps you from living your life. This is known as clinical depression. By taking this medication, it may help improve your mood and feelings of well being, relieve anxiety and tension and help you get a good night’s sleep. It also helps boost your energy levels.

This medication comes in four different strengths which are 10mg; 25mg, 50mg and 75mg. Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

How does Elavil work?

This medication belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants. It functions by affected the balancing of a natural chemical in the brain called a neurotransmitter.

This medication is to be taken by mouth. And it is usually taken 1 to 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor. If you are only taking this medication once a day, be sure to take it at bedtime. Remember that the dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment.

To reduce the risk of side effects, your doctor may start this medication on a lower dose and then gradually up your dose over the next several months.

It is best to use this medication regularly to gain the most benefit, and it is best to continue to take this medication when you fell well.

It is important to continue taking this medication, even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking with your doctor about it first. Some conditions may worsen if the medication is suddenly stopped.  You may experience more mood swings, headaches, tiredness, and a change in your sleep patterns. The best way to avoid this is to speak with your doctor to gradually decrease your dosage.

Keep in mind that this medication may not work right away and it may take up to 1 to 4 weeks for results.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to Azilsartan; or to other tricyclic antidepressants (such as nortriptyline) or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. Especially if you have had any of the following;  bleeding problems, breathing problems, liver problems, recent heart attack, problems urinating (such as due to enlarged prostate), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type), personal or family history of mental/mood conditions (such as bipolar disorder, psychosis), family history of suicide, seizures, conditions that may increase your risk of seizures (such as other brain disease, alcohol withdrawal).

Amitriptyline may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that need medical attention right away.

The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Before using amitriptyline, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).

Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/"water pills") or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using amitriptyline safely.

Common side effects of this medication do include the following; Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, weight gain, or trouble urinating. It is best to speak with your doctor promptly if you are experiencing any of these side effects.

To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.

However unlikely, these serious side effects should to brought to you doctor’s attention right way;  easy bruising/bleeding, persistent heartburn, shaking, mask-like facial expressions, muscle spasms, severe stomach/abdominal pain, decreased sexual ability/desire, enlarged/painful breasts.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe dizziness, fainting, seizures, eye pain/swelling/redness, widened pupils, vision changes (such as seeing rainbows around lights at night).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.