Amitryptiline

Generic Name

Amitryptiline

Trade Name

Elavil

Indication

depression, anxiety, insomnia

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 hypotention

may lead to photosensativity, instruct patient to use sunscreen

may turn urine blue/green color.