Amitriptyline is an antidepressant that alters certain chemicals in the brain to treat symptoms of anxiety and depression. The National Institutes of Health add that amitriptyline is also used to treat headaches and pain from shingles. As with all medications, amitriptyline has side effects.
Common Side Effects
Amitriptyline acts on the neurotransmitter acetylcholine on the brain and parasympathetic nervous system. This produces effects called anticholenergic side effects. These side effects are common when taking amitriptyline and include nausea, constipation, dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, nightmares, blurred vision, headache and impotence. These side effects are not life-threatening and may go away when an individual's body adjusts to the medication.
Suicidal Thoughts
In some children and young adults, antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Children and adults under the age of 24 are carefully monitored while taking amitriptyline for signs and increased symptoms of suicidal thinking and behaviors. Drugs.com states that amitriptyline has not shown to increase suicide risk in adults over the age of 24. In some individuals, amitriptyline can cause a worsening of symptoms. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance states side effects such as hallucinations, panic disorder, agitation, restlessness, insomnia and irritability can indicate that depression and anxiety symptoms are getting worse.
Serotonin Syndrome
Amitriptyline can cause a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome results from having too much serotonin accumulate in the body. The Mayo Clinic states that symptoms come on several hours after taking the medication and can include confusion, agitation, increased heart rate, sweating, twitching, diarrhea and headache. Serotonin syndrome is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated.
Drowsiness
A common side effect of amitriptyline is drowsiness. Combining alcohol, over-the-counter cold medications and other CNS depressants such as pain killers, sedatives and sleep medications with amitryptaline can increase drowsiness and impair reaction time. The Mayo Clinic warns that an individual should be aware of how the medication affects him before driving or participating in activities that require alertness.
Allergic Reaction
Some individuals may develop an allergic reaction after taking amitriptyline. Allergic reactions can be life-threatening and signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, rash, itching, tightness in the chest and swelling of the lips mouth, tongue, face or lips.
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