How should I take Amitriptyline (Elavil/Saroten/Endep/Vanatrip)? What happens if I miss a dose? What happens if I overdose?
Answer:
- Take Amitriptyline exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass (8 oz) of water.
- Amitriptyline may be taken several times a day or in one daily dose (usually at bedtime). Follow your doctor's instructions.
- Do not stop taking Amitriptyline suddenly. This could cause symptoms such as nausea, headache, and malaise.
- It may be 4 weeks or more before you start to feel better, but do not stop taking Amitriptyline without first talking to your doctor.
- Store Amitriptyline at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
- If you miss a dose take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
- Symptoms of an Amitriptyline overdose include seizures, confusion, drowsiness, agitation, hallucinations, and low blood pressure (dizziness, fatigue, fainting). If you overdose seek emergency medical attention.