What Is Amitriptyline Prescribed For?

As an antidepressant, amitriptyline hydrochloride (Elavil^®) is prescribed for treating depression symptoms in adults and adolescents (age 12 and older). However, on occasion, healthcare providers may prescribe amitriptyline for other, non-approved uses (or "off-label" uses). Some of these off-label uses include the treatment of:

Chronic pain
Anxiety disorders
Bedwetting
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Fibromyalgia
Bulimia
Smoking.

Keep in mind that amitriptyline may take several weeks to start working.

(Click Amitriptyline Uses for a more in-depth look at what amitriptyline is prescribed for, including information on how it can help relieve the symptoms of depression and possibly other various conditions.)