Amitriptyline, also known by the brand name Elavil, is a medication prescribed to treat depression and nerve pain in patients with motor neuron disease. The mechanism by which amitriptyline treats nerve pain symptoms is unknown. This medication is frequently given to patients with depressive symptoms; therefore, a patient with motor neuron disease should understand the potential side effects.
Suicidal Thoughts
According to Drugs.com, amitriptyline increases the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in comparison to placebo. This effect is most commonly seen in children, adolescents and young adults with a major depressive disorder. Patients with motor neuron disease are at a high risk for experiencing depression; thus, taking amitriptyline may increase the risk of suicidal thinking or behaviors. Patients and their caregivers should immediately contact the doctor if these side effects occur.
Tremors
A patient with motor neuron disease is at an increased risk of having tremors if taking amitriptyline, according to Drugs.com. Because amitriptyline increases tremors in normal patients, a patient with a motor neuron disease is more likely to experience this side effect. In this case, a patient should let his doctor know that he is experiencing an increase in tremors.
Constipation
According to MayoClinic.com, patients with motor neuron disease are more likely to experience constipation, because contractions of the colon often decrease. Taking amitriptyline may further worsen constipation that a patient with motor neuron disease is likely already experiencing. If a patient is having difficulty moving his bowels, and the condition worsens with amitriptyline use, he should let his doctor know so other medications may be considered.
