Amitriptyline is an antidepressant medicine. It's used to treat low mood and depression.
It works by increasing levels of a chemical called serotonin in your brain.
It's only available on prescription. It comes as tablets and as a liquid that you swallow
Amitriptyline is also used to treat nerve pain and prevent migraines.
Key facts
- You may start to feel better after 2 to 4 weeks but it can take 4 to 6 weeks for amitriptyline to work fully.
- Common side effects include a dry mouth and constipation. They're usually mild and go away after a couple of weeks.
- Amitriptyline can cause extra side effects if you stop taking it suddenly. Talk to your doctor if you want to stop taking it.
- It's best not to drive, cycle or use machinery or tools for the first few days of treatment until you know how amitriptyline makes you feel.