People who suffer from
depression often benefit from amitriptyline hydrochloride (
Elavil®). This prescription medication comes in tablet form and is generally taken one to three times a day. The exact amount your healthcare provider prescribes will depend on various factors, including your age.
Although it is not exactly clear how amitriptyline works, it is known to affect certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which may help to relieve
symptoms of depression, such as feelings of helplessness, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, and suicidal thoughts.
This medication is certainly effective in many cases; however, it can take up to four weeks for amitriptyline's benefits to be felt, so do not be discouraged if you feel this product is not working at first, and do not change your dose without talking to your healthcare provider.
(Click Amitriptyline to learn more about the benefits of this drug. This full-length article takes a detailed look at this product, with information on how it works, when and how to take it, possible side effects to be aware of, and more.)