Who can take amitriptyline for depression
Most adults can take amitriptyline for depression or low mood.
Who may not be able to take amitriptyline for depression
Amitriptyline is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor if you:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to amitriptyline or any other medicine
- have a heart problem – amitriptyline can make some heart problems worse
- have liver problems
- have epilepsy or are having electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) – amitriptyline may increase your risk of having a fit or seizure
- have ever taken any other medicines for depression – some antidepressants can affect the way amitriptyline works, even after you've stopped taking them
- are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding
- have an eye condition called glaucoma – amitriptyline can increase the pressure in your eye
- have thoughts about harming yourself or ending your life
- have problems emptying your bladder
- have type 1 or type 2 diabetes
Amitriptyline can make it more difficult to keep your blood sugar stable. If you have diabetes and you usually test your blood sugar levels, you may have to do this more often for the first few weeks of treatment with amitriptyline. You may also need to adjust your diabetes treatment. Speak to your doctor if your blood sugar levels are causing you concern.