Elavil

Amitriptyline

Designed for effective depressive symptoms management and utilized to support mood stability in patients.

Active ingredient
Amitriptyline
Supply
Pharmacy
Route
Oral use
Form
Tablet; Film-coated tablet
Strengths
10 · 25 · 50mg

Elavil details

Alternative names
Tryptizol
Therapeutic class
Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA)
Pharmacological class
TCA
Known off-label uses
tension-type headache
Minor side effects
dry mouth; sedation; dizziness; constipation
Moderate side effects
urinary retention; blurred vision; weight gain; tachycardia
Dosage forms
Tablet; Film-coated tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Supply category
Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
Manufacturer
AstraZeneca
Onset Time
2–4 weeks
Duration
24 hours
Storage instructions
Store in a cool, dry place.
Drug interactions
Alcohol; MAO inhibitors; Cimetidine
Age restrictions
Not for use in children and adolescents.
Contraindications

recent myocardial infarction; heart block; arrhythmia; severe liver impairment; mania

Precautions and warnings

may impair ability to drive or operate machinery; use with caution in elderly patients; may affect blood sugar control

Serious side effects

cardiac arrhythmia, requires immediate medical attention; convulsions, requires immediate medical attention; paralytic ileus, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

Designed for effective depressive symptoms management and utilized to support mood stability in patients.

Mechanism of action

This medicine acts by increasing the concentration of neurotransmitters like serotonin and noradrenaline in the synaptic cleft by inhibiting their reuptake into nerve terminals, thereby enhancing mood and providing pain-relieving effects.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Not recommended. Breastfeeding: Small amounts excreted in milk; monitor infant.

Where this medicine is registered

  • Singapore
  • Hong Kong
  • Thailand
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Indonesia
  • Taiwan
  • South Korea
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • UAE
  • South Africa

About Elavil

Elavil is the well-known brand of Amitriptyline, a medication utilised for Major Depressive Disorder, neuropathic pain and migraine prophylaxis. The same active ingredient is also sold under the brand Tryptizol. Produced by AstraZeneca, the medication is supplied as a tablet in strengths of 10, 25 and 50mg.

Elavil availability in Asia

Elavil is registered across 14 markets including Japan, the UAE and Singapore, with availability also in Hong Kong, Thailand and Malaysia. Accessing generic Amitriptyline, often manufactured in India, provides a more affordable alternative to the original brand for expats and those located far from a well-stocked pharmacy. Such treatment options assist in consistent symptom management across the region and are best used under a doctor’s care.