Elavil is a brand-name prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder (depression). It is classified as a tricyclic antidepressant medication, which increases serotonin levels in the brain.

Elavil is supplied as an oral tablet. It contains the drug amitriptyline, which is also available in generic form. It is only available via prescription from a licensed health care provider.

Doctors prescribe Elavil to treat major depressive disorder (depression).

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is a type of mood disorder that negatively affects how you think, behave, and feel. Untreated depression can lead to a range of emotional and physical issues. Symptoms of depression can make it difficult to carry out day-to-day tasks and maintain personal relationships.

The symptoms of depression may vary from person to person. They may appear mild in some, while they can be debilitating in others.

Common symptoms of depression include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loneliness
  
• Outbursts of irritability or anger
  
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, especially activities that bring pleasure like hobbies or sex
  
• Sexual problems/ sexual dysfunction
  
• Sleep problems like insomnia or sleeping too much
  
• Slowed speech
  
• Tiredness or lack of energy
  
• Reduced appetite or weight loss
  
• Weight gain
  
• Impaired/ slowed thinking
  
• Restlessness and anxiety
  
• Suicidal thoughts
  
  

These feelings are persistent and require treatment. If left untreated, depression can lead to complications such as:

• Social isolation
  
• Anxiety disorders
  
• Weight gain/ weight loss
  
• Eating disorders (like anorexia or bulimia)
  
• Self-mutilation
  
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  
• Alcohol or drug abuse
  
  

Elavil belongs to a class of medicines known as tricyclic antidepressants.

Tricyclic antidepressants work by increasing the amount of serotonin in your brain. Your brain naturally produces two neurotransmitters called serotonin and norepinephrine, which can help you to stay focused, emotionally stable, happier, and calmer. In patients with major depressive disorder, it is thought that serotonin levels are low, which leads to depression symptoms. Tricyclic antidepressants block the absorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, which leads to a build-up of these neurotransmitters. The increased concentrations of norepinephrine and serotonin help reduce depression symptoms.

Elavil has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these reactions do not disappear within a few days or become severe.

Common side effects reported from Elavil use:

• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Constipation
  
• Difficulty with urination
  
• Sweating
  
• Weakness/ fatigue
  
• Headaches
  
• Blurry vision
  
• Changes in appetite
  
• Weight gain/ weight loss
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Sexual dysfunction (in men and women)
  
  

This is not a complete list of adverse reactions. Severe adverse reactions include:

• Chest pain
  
• Changes in heartbeat
  
• Dizziness
  
• Fainting
  
• Difficulty with speech
  
• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Swelling
  
• Muscle spasms
  
• Seizures
  
• Hallucinations
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
  

If you experience any of these reactions, seek medical attention immediately.

Antidepressant drugs like Elavil increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, so patients taking Elavil should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or unusual changes in mood or behavior.

As with all prescription medications, inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been diagnosed with and any medications or supplements you currently take before starting treatment with Elavil. Elavil can interact with other medicines and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. Before beginning treatment with Elavil, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant.

Elavil is commonly prescribed as an oral tablet. Dosage is commonly divided throughout the day or taken once daily. The exact dosage and schedule will vary depending on the patient's age, diagnosis, and body weight. Take the medication exactly as your doctor has instructed.

Do not increase your dosage or discontinue the use of Elavil unless ordered to do so by your doctor. If you experience any adverse reactions, contact a health care provider. Your dosage may increase or decrease depending on how well you tolerate the medication.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Elavil is only available by prescription from a licensed health care provider. Providers on Sesame can order Elavil for local pickup on the same day. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Elavil to be picked up near you—often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.