Amitriptyline Pain Relief
Amitriptyline is a prescription-only medication that’s commonly used for the management of nerve pain (also known as neuropathic pain). This type of pain occurs when a nerve becomes pinched, inflamed, or damaged in some way. Nerve pain can really cut to the core and gnaw away at you – people often describe it in different ways such as intense burning, stinging, tingling, pins and needles, or a stabbing, shooting, or electric pain. Common conditions that can lead to nerve pain include shingles or after your shingles rash has cleared (post-herpetic neuralgia), sciatica, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, a herniated disc pressing on a nerve, or diabetic neuropathy.
Amitriptyline is also sometimes used to prevent migraines and chronic tension-type headaches. The medication is formulated as tablets or oral liquid, and it can take around four to six weeks before you feel its full effects.
Doctor’s advice
What can you find here?
Is amitriptyline an antidepressant?
Yes, amitriptyline is an antidepressant (specifically from the class of tricyclic antidepressants). In the past, amitriptyline was used to treat depression, but is now rarely used for this purpose because SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) like sertraline and fluoxetine are considered to be a better treatment option. Amitriptyline doses for depression are typically a lot higher than the doses used to treat nerve pain.
How does amitriptyline work?
It isn’t fully clear how amitriptyline relieves pain but it’s thought to interfere with the transmission of pain signals in the brain and spinal cord. The antidepressant action of amitriptyline occurs via its action to prolong the effects of mood-elevating chemicals (such as serotonin and noradrenaline) that are regularly released in the brain. Depression is linked with people having low levels of these chemicals in their brain, so taking amitriptyline can help to raise their mood.
Can Amitriptyline Interact with Other Medications?
Yes, amitriptyline can interact with other drugs, which is why it’s vital to consult a pharmacist or doctor before combining it with any new treatments. Here are a few interactions to be aware of:
- Combining amitriptyline with drowsy antihistamines (e.g., chlorphenamine) or opioid painkillers (e.g., codeine) can increase sedation.
- Herbal products like St John’s wort can lead to dangerously high levels of serotonin when taken alongside amitriptyline.
- Always inform your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal products you’re using to avoid unexpected interactions.
Are there any side-effects to amitriptyline?
As with all medications, some people may experience side effects. Some common side effects can include constipation, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. If you experience drowsiness, you should avoid driving or operating any machinery. Generally, it is best to avoid alcohol when taking amitriptyline as it can worsen your side effects.
Amitriptyline can cause withdrawal effects if you suddenly stop taking the medication. To avoid this, your doctor will recommend a gradual dosage reduction for coming off the medication.
Does amitriptyline interact with medication?
Amitriptyline doesn’t provide instant relief. The medication often takes several weeks - typically four to six - to reach its full potential. This is normal and doesn’t mean the treatment isn’t working; patience is key.
Conclusion
Amitriptyline is a powerful option for managing nerve pain, migraines, and chronic headaches. Though it’s no longer commonly prescribed for depression, its ability to ease persistent pain and reduce headache frequency makes it a valuable tool in modern medicine. Always follow your doctor’s advice and share any concerns, whether it’s about side effects, interactions, or how the medication fits into your daily life.
Related topics
What can you find here?