Medications
 
 

Amitriptyline Weight Change

Amitriptyline hydrochloride (Elavil®) is a medication used to treat depression in adults. As with any medicine, side effects are possible with amitriptyline, and changes in weight were reported in clinical trials. Both weight gain and weight loss are possible; however, weight gain was reported much more often than a decrease in weight.
 
If you experience a weight change with amitriptyline -- especially an increase -- there are various things you can do to help combat this. You may find that eating more heart-healthy foods, exercising more, and watching your alcohol intake solves the problem. If it continues despite these lifestyle changes, however, consult your healthcare provider.
 
(Click Amitriptyline and Weight Gain to learn more about this possible side effect, including its occurrence in clinical studies, other things you can do it if happens, and why you should report it to your healthcare provider.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD