Amitriptyline hydrochloride (
Elavil®) is a prescription medicine licensed to treat
depression. If you have recently started treatment with amitriptyline, you may be wondering, "When does it start working?"
Antidepressants such as amitriptyline may take several weeks to start working. In most cases, the physical
symptoms of depression (such as pain or changes in sleep patterns) will improve first, sometimes within the first few weeks of treatment. It usually takes at least four to six weeks before significant changes in mood occur.
For amitriptyline to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. The antidepressant will not work if you take it differently than your healthcare provider prescribes. The medication should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
(Click Amitriptyline Uses and Amitriptyline Dosage for more information on when amitriptyline may start working, for detailed dosing guidelines for the treatment of depression, and for tips on using it safely.)
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