Amitriptyline Side Effects

Most side effects with amitriptyline are minor and require little or no treatment. Among the common side effects are increased sweating, confusion, and dizziness. Also, people who suddenly stop taking amitriptyline may experience withdrawal side effects, which can include nausea, headache, irritability, and sleep problems. Amitriptyline side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider include changes in heart rhythm, seizures, and hallucinations.

Amitriptyline HCl

Amitriptyline Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with amitriptyline hydrochloride (Elavil^®). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If people do develop amitriptyline side effects, in many cases, they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.

(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with amitriptyline. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of amitriptyline side effects with you.)

Common Side Effects of Amitriptyline

Amitriptyline has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, with many people being evaluated.

In these studies, side effects are always documented and compared to side effects that occur in people who are not taking the medication. As a result, it was possible to see what side effects occurred, how often they appeared, and how they compared to the group not taking the medicine.

Based on these studies, common amitriptyline side effects include but are not limited to:

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Drowsiness
Confusion
Constipation
Difficulty urinating
Dry mouth
Hair loss (see Amitriptyline and Hair Loss)
Weight gain or weight loss (see Amitriptyline and Weight Gain)
Erectile dysfunction (ED or impotence) or changes in libido (sex drive) (see Amitriptyline Sexual Side Effects for more information)
Changes in blood sugar levels
Increased sweating.

Withdrawal side effects have been reported in people who have suddenly stopped taking amitriptyline. These withdrawal side effects of amitriptyline can include:

Nausea
Headache
Irritability
Restlessness
Sleep problems.

(Amitriptyline Side Effects Continued: Page 2)