Always take amitriptyline as a doctor or pharmacist tells you, and follow the instructions on the leaflet in the medicine packet.
Dosage and how to take amitriptyline for depression
Amitriptyline tablets come in different strengths of 10mg, 25mg or 50mg.
Amitriptyline liquid also comes in 3 different strengths containing 10mg, 25mg or 50mg in a 5ml spoonful.
The usual dose of amitriptyline for depression in adults is 50mg a day (25mg twice a day).
Some people may need to start on a lower dose of 10mg to 25mg a day, to reduce the chance of side effects. This includes people with heart problems, and older people.
The dose will then be gradually increased, if necessary, until you and your doctor agree that you have found a dose that suits you.
The maximum recommended dose of amitriptyline is 150mg a day, but this should only be under the supervision of a specialist.
How to take it
You'll usually take amitriptyline twice a day.
Amitriptyline does not usually upset your stomach. You can take it with or without food.
Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water. If you chew them, they taste bitter.
The liquid comes with a plastic syringe or spoon to help you measure out the right dose. If you do not have a syringe or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount.
How long to take it for
Once you're feeling better, it's likely that you'll keep taking amitriptyline for several more months.
Most doctors recommend that you take antidepressants for 6 months to a year after you've stopped feeling depressed. Stopping before then can make depression come back.
Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking amitriptyline for longer than a few months. It will depend on:
- how bad your symptoms are
- whether it's a one-off problem or it keeps coming back
- how well amitriptyline works for you
- any side effects you've had
If you forget to take it
If you forget a dose, leave your missed dose and take your next one at the usual time.
Never take 2 doses at the same time. Never have an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.
If you often forget doses, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.
If you take too much
It's important to get medical advice if you take more than your prescribed dose of amitriptyline.
Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:
You take more than your prescribed dose of amitriptyline and you:
- have a fast or irregular heartbeat
- have a seizure or fit
- feel drowsy or pass out
- have difficulty breathing
- suddenly become very confused
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:
- you take more than your prescribed dose of amitriptyline, even if you do not have any symptoms
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
If you need to go to A&E, do not drive. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring the amitriptyline packet or leaflet inside it, any remaining medicine, and any other medicines you take.
Stopping amitriptyline
If you've been feeling better for 6 months or more, your doctor may suggest coming off amitriptyline.
If you stop taking amitriptyline suddenly, you may get withdrawal side effects.
These side effects are a physical reaction as the medicine leaves your body and can include headaches, feeling anxious and tired, and difficulty falling asleep.
To help prevent these side effects, your doctor may recommend reducing your dose gradually over several weeks, or longer if you have been taking amitriptyline for a long time.
Important
Do not stop taking amitriptyline suddenly without talking to your doctor.