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Outline Generic Name

Amitriptyline

Trade Name

Elavil

Indication

Depression, anxiety, insomnia, parkinson’s

Action

Increases effect of serotonin and norepinephrine in the CNS, exhibits anticholinergic effects

Therapeutic Class

Antidepressant

Pharmacologic Class

Tricyclic antidepressant

Nursing Considerations

• Contraindicated in MI, heart failure, QT prolongation, glaucoma • May increase risk for suicidal ideation • May cause arrhythmias, hypotension, EKG changes • May cause alterations in blood glucose levels • May lead to general sedation and lethargy • Do not use within 2 weeks of MAOIs • Instruct pt to take medication exactly as instructed • Monitor for orthostatic hypotension • May lead to photosensitivity, instruct patient to use sunscreen • May turn urine blue/green color.