Amitriptyline for Children

Amitriptyline hydrochloride (Elavil^®) is a medication that is often used for treating symptoms of depression. It is available by prescription only and belongs to a class of antidepressants known as tricyclic antidepressants.

Healthcare providers generally will not recommend amitriptyline for children under the age of 12 years old. Antidepressants have been shown to increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in short-term research studies involving children and teenagers. Therefore, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about treatment options for childhood or teen depression.

(Click Amitriptyline Uses for more information about children and amitriptyline, to find out how this antidepressant works, and for a list of possible off-label uses.)