Amitriptyline Viatris (formerly Amitriptyline Alphapharm) (Amitriptyline Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Amitriptyline Viatris (formerly Amitriptyline Alphapharm) Used For?
Amitriptyline Viatris is a medication that contains amitriptyline hydrochloride, primarily used to manage depression. It can also be prescribed for bedwetting in children when no physical cause is identified.
Primary Uses
Amitriptyline Viatris is mainly used to treat depression and can also help with bedwetting.
How It Works
This medication works by correcting the imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood.
Good to know: Amitriptyline Viatris is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Amitriptyline Viatris (formerly Amitriptyline Alphapharm)
It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Amitriptyline Viatris.
Dosage Instructions
For depression, the typical starting dose is between 75 mg to 150 mg per day, divided into multiple doses. For bedwetting, lower doses are recommended based on the child's age and weight.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- dry mouth
- altered sense of taste
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- constipation
- blurred vision
- difficulty focusing
- drowsiness
- tiredness
- headache
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- increased sweating
- weight gain or loss
- changes in sex drive
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- fast or irregular heartbeats
- larger breasts than normal
- tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- uncontrolled movements
- difficulty passing urine
- frequent infections
- yellowing of skin or eyes
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- anxiety or confusion
- hallucinations
- mood swings
Impulse Control Issues
Patients may experience issues with impulse control, including gambling or spending problems.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind when taking Amitriptyline Viatris.
Who Should Not Take Amitriptyline Viatris (formerly Amitriptyline Alphapharm)
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to amitriptyline or any of its ingredients, have recently had a heart attack, or are currently taking cisapride or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have heart or blood vessel issues, liver problems, glaucoma, urinary difficulties, thyroid issues, seizures, or any mental health conditions other than depression.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as there are potential risks to the baby. Amitriptyline Viatris should not be taken while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Caution is advised for elderly patients, especially those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Amitriptyline Viatris, affecting its efficacy or increasing side effects.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how this medication works.
- cisapride
- monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as phenelzine, tranylcypromine, moclobemide, and selegiline
- selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- medications for high blood pressure
- anticholinergics
- medications for mental disorders like schizophrenia
- quinidine and flecainide
- cimetidine
- sleeping tablets/sedatives
- anti-anxiety medications
- medications for epilepsy
- thyroid medications
- disulfiram
- tramadol
Alcohol & Driving
It is important to be cautious with alcohol and when driving while on Amitriptyline Viatris.
Alcohol
Combining alcohol with this medication may increase drowsiness and dizziness. It's advisable to avoid alcohol during treatment.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Amitriptyline Viatris may impair your alertness. If you feel drowsy or dizzy, do not drive or operate machinery.
Temperature Regulation
Be aware that this medication may affect your ability to regulate body temperature.
Storage
Store Amitriptyline Viatris in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
Taking too much Amitriptyline Viatris can be dangerous. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some people may notice improvements in their depressive symptoms after 3 to 4 days, but it may take up to 4 weeks to feel the full benefits.
Amitriptyline Viatris can be taken with or without food.
No, Amitriptyline Viatris is not considered addictive.
Stopping Amitriptyline Viatris suddenly may cause nausea, headaches, or feeling unwell. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
It is advisable to avoid alcohol, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.
Weight gain or loss can occur as a side effect of Amitriptyline Viatris.
Caution is advised for elderly patients, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.