Who can take amitriptyline for pain and migraine
Most adults aged 18 years old and over can take amitriptyline. Children aged 2 years old and over can take it for some types of nerve pain.
Who may not be able to take amitriptyline for pain and migraine
Amitriptyline is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor if you:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to amitriptyline or any other medicine
- have a heart problem – amitriptyline can make some heart problems worse
- have liver or kidney problems
- have epilepsy – amitriptyline can increase seizures or fits
- have ever taken any medicines for depression – some antidepressants can affect the way amitriptyline works
- are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding
- have an eye condition called glaucoma – amitriptyline can increase the pressure in your eye
- have thoughts about harming yourself or ending your life
- have type 1 or type 2 diabetes
Amitriptyline may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes and you usually test your blood sugar levels, you may have to do this more often for the first few weeks of treatment. Talk to your diabetes doctor if your blood sugar goes too high or low.