U.S. BRAND NAMES — Aphthasol®
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Anti-inflammatory, Locally Applied
DOSING: ADULTS — Aphthous ulcers: Topical: Administer ~1/4 inch (0.5 cm) directly on ulcers 4 times/day following oral hygiene, after meals, and at bedtime.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Refer to adult dosing.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Paste, oral:
Aphthasol®: 5% (3 g) [contains benzyl alcohol]
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Paste, oral:
Aphthasol®: 5% (3 g)
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — No
USE — Treatment of aphthous ulcers (ie, canker sores)
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Allergic disorders
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT
1% to 2%:
Dermatologic: Allergic contact dermatitis
Gastrointestinal: Oral irritation
<1% (Limited to important or life-threatening): Contact mucositis
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amlexanox or any component of the formulation
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Concerns related to adverse effects: Mucositis: Discontinue therapy if contact mucositis develops. Rash: Discontinue therapy if rash develops.
Special populations: Pediatrics: Safety and efficacy have not been established in children.
DRUG INTERACTIONS — There are no known significant interactions.
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — B (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Due to lack of data, avoid use in pregnancy, if possible.
LACTATION — Excretion in breast milk unknown/use caution
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Paste (Aphthasol)
5% (3): $29.99
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Elics (JP); Solfa (JP)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — As a benzopyrano-bipyridine carboxylic acid derivative, amlexanox has anti-inflammatory and antiallergic properties; it inhibits chemical mediatory release of the slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) and may have antagonistic effects on interleukin-3
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Absorption: Some from swallowed paste
Metabolism: Hydroxylated and conjugated metabolites
Half-life elimination: 3.5 hours
Time to peak, serum: 2 hours
Excretion: Urine (17% as unchanged drug)
Amlexanox
U.S. BRAND NAMES — Aphthasol®
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Anti-inflammatory, Locally Applied
DOSING: ADULTS — Aphthous ulcers: Topical: Administer ~1/4 inch (0.5 cm) directly on ulcers 4 times/day following oral hygiene, after meals, and at bedtime.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Refer to adult dosing.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Paste, oral:
Aphthasol®: 5% (3 g) [contains benzyl alcohol]
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Paste, oral:
Aphthasol®: 5% (3 g)
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — No
USE — Treatment of aphthous ulcers (ie, canker sores)
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Allergic disorders
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT
1% to 2%:
Dermatologic: Allergic contact dermatitis
Gastrointestinal: Oral irritation
<1% (Limited to important or life-threatening): Contact mucositis
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amlexanox or any component of the formulation
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Concerns related to adverse effects: Mucositis: Discontinue therapy if contact mucositis develops. Rash: Discontinue therapy if rash develops.
Special populations: Pediatrics: Safety and efficacy have not been established in children.
DRUG INTERACTIONS — There are no known significant interactions.
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — B (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Due to lack of data, avoid use in pregnancy, if possible.
LACTATION — Excretion in breast milk unknown/use caution
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Paste (Aphthasol)
5% (3): $29.99
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Elics (JP); Solfa (JP)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — As a benzopyrano-bipyridine carboxylic acid derivative, amlexanox has anti-inflammatory and antiallergic properties; it inhibits chemical mediatory release of the slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) and may have antagonistic effects on interleukin-3
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Absorption: Some from swallowed paste
Metabolism: Hydroxylated and conjugated metabolites
Half-life elimination: 3.5 hours
Time to peak, serum: 2 hours
Excretion: Urine (17% as unchanged drug)
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Anti-inflammatory, Locally Applied
DOSING: ADULTS — Aphthous ulcers: Topical: Administer ~1/4 inch (0.5 cm) directly on ulcers 4 times/day following oral hygiene, after meals, and at bedtime.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Refer to adult dosing.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Paste, oral:
Aphthasol®: 5% (3 g) [contains benzyl alcohol]
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Paste, oral:
Aphthasol®: 5% (3 g)
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — No
USE — Treatment of aphthous ulcers (ie, canker sores)
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Allergic disorders
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT
1% to 2%:
Dermatologic: Allergic contact dermatitis
Gastrointestinal: Oral irritation
<1% (Limited to important or life-threatening): Contact mucositis
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amlexanox or any component of the formulation
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Concerns related to adverse effects: Mucositis: Discontinue therapy if contact mucositis develops. Rash: Discontinue therapy if rash develops.
Special populations: Pediatrics: Safety and efficacy have not been established in children.
DRUG INTERACTIONS — There are no known significant interactions.
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — B (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Due to lack of data, avoid use in pregnancy, if possible.
LACTATION — Excretion in breast milk unknown/use caution
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Paste (Aphthasol)
5% (3): $29.99
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Elics (JP); Solfa (JP)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — As a benzopyrano-bipyridine carboxylic acid derivative, amlexanox has anti-inflammatory and antiallergic properties; it inhibits chemical mediatory release of the slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) and may have antagonistic effects on interleukin-3
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Absorption: Some from swallowed paste
Metabolism: Hydroxylated and conjugated metabolites
Half-life elimination: 3.5 hours
Time to peak, serum: 2 hours
Excretion: Urine (17% as unchanged drug)
Amitriptyline
MEDICATION SAFETY ISSUES
Sound-alike/look-alike issues:
Amitriptyline may be confused with aminophylline, imipramine, nortriptyline
Elavil® may be confused with Aldoril®, Eldepryl®, enalapril, Equanil®, Mellaril®, Oruvail®, Plavix®
MEDICATION GUIDE — An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088622.pdf, must be dispensed with this medication for each new outpatient prescription and refill.
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
DOSING: ADULTS
Depression: Oral: 50-150 mg/day single dose at bedtime or in divided doses; dose may be gradually increased up to 300 mg/day.
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 25 mg at bedtime; may increase as tolerated to 100 mg/day.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; usual dose: 150 mg; reported dosing ranges: 10-400 mg/day
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (unlabeled use): Oral: 75-200 mg/day
DOSING: PEDIATRIC
(For additional information see "Amitriptyline: Pediatric drug information")
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.1 mg/kg at bedtime, may advance as tolerated over 2-3 weeks to 0.5-2 mg/kg at bedtime
Depressive disorders:
Children (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial doses of 1 mg/kg/day given in 3 divided doses with increases to 1.5 mg/kg/day have been reported in a small number of children (n=9) 9-12 years of age; clinically, doses up to 3 mg/kg/day (5 mg/kg/day if monitored closely) have been proposed
Adolescents: Initial: 25-50 mg/day; may administer in divided doses; increase gradually to 100 mg/day in divided doses.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.25 mg/kg/day, given at bedtime; increase dose by 0.25 mg/kg/day to maximum 1 mg/kg/day. Reported dosing ranges: 0.1-2 mg/kg/day; maximum suggested dose: 10 mg.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Depression: Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; dose should be increased in 10-25 mg increments every week if tolerated; dose range: 25-150 mg/day. See Renal/Hepatic Impairment.
DOSING: RENAL IMPAIRMENT — Nondialyzable
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Use with caution and monitor plasma levels and patient response.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, as hydrochloride: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Relief of symptoms of depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Analgesic for certain chronic and neuropathic pain; prophylaxis against migraine headaches; treatment of depressive disorders in children; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — Anticholinergic effects may be pronounced; moderate to marked sedation can occur (tolerance to these effects usually occurs).
Frequency not defined.
Cardiovascular: Orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, ECG changes (nonspecific), AV conduction changes, cardiomyopathy (rare), MI, stroke, heart block, arrhythmia, syncope, hypertension, palpitation
Central nervous system: Restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, sedation, fatigue, anxiety, cognitive function impaired, seizure, extrapyramidal symptoms, coma, hallucinations, confusion, disorientation, coordination impaired, ataxia, headache, nightmares, hyperpyrexia
Dermatologic: Allergic rash, urticaria, photosensitivity, alopecia
Endocrine & metabolic: Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion
Gastrointestinal: Weight gain, xerostomia, constipation, paralytic ileus, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis, peculiar taste, diarrhea, black tongue
Genitourinary: Urinary retention
Hematologic: Bone marrow depression, purpura, eosinophilia
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Numbness, paresthesia, peripheral neuropathy, tremor, weakness
Ocular: Blurred vision, mydriasis, ocular pressure increased
Otic: Tinnitus
Miscellaneous: Diaphoresis, withdrawal reactions (nausea, headache, malaise)
Postmarketing and/or case reports: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rare), serotonin syndrome (rare)
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other tricyclics may occur); use of MAO inhibitors within past 14 days; acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction; concurrent use of cisapride
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Suicidal thinking/behavior: .
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. Amitriptyline is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. The degree of anticholinergic blockade produced by this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Hematologic effects: TCAs may rarely cause bone marrow suppression; monitor for any signs of infection and obtain CBC if symptoms (eg, fever, sore throat) evident. Orthostatic hypotension: May cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: May cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is very high relative to other antidepressants.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation due to concerns of pro-arrhythmogenesis.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Anticholinergic and/or neuroleptic agents: Hyperpyrexia has been observed with TCAs in combination with anticholinergics and/or neuroleptics, particularly during hot weather. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue prior to elective surgery requiring general anesthesia. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS — Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): Anticholinergics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central). Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticholinergics. If the anticholinergic action is a side effect of the agent, the result may be beneficial. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS
Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (may increase CNS depression).
Food: Grapefruit juice may inhibit the metabolism of some TCAs and clinical toxicity may result.
Herb/Nutraceutical: St John's wort may decrease amitriptyline levels. Avoid valerian, St John's wort, kava kava, gotu kola (may increase CNS depression).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — C (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Teratogenic effects have been observed in animal studies. Amitriptyline crosses the human placenta; CNS effects, limb deformities and developmental delay have been noted in case reports.
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/not recommended (AAP rates "of concern")
BREAST-FEEDING CONSIDERATIONS — Generally, it is not recommended to breast-feed if taking antidepressants because of the long half-life, active metabolites, and the potential for side effects in the infant.
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Amitriptyline HCl)
25 mg (90): $11.99
50 mg (90): $12.99
75 mg (100): $14.44
100 mg (30): $13.99
150 mg (90): $21.98
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Monitor blood pressure and pulse rate prior to and during initial therapy; evaluate mental status, suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased); monitor weight; ECG in older adults and patients with cardiac disease
REFERENCE RANGE — Therapeutic: Amitriptyline and nortriptyline 100-250 ng/mL (SI: 360-900 nmol/L); nortriptyline 50-150 ng/mL (SI: 190-570 nmol/L); Toxic: >0.5 mcg/mL; plasma levels do not always correlate with clinical effectiveness
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Apo-Amitriptyline®; Levate®; Novo-Triptyn; PMS-Amitriptyline
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Adepril (IT); Amilit (IT); Amineurin (DE); Amiplin (TW); Amiprin (JP); Amitrip (NZ); Amitriptylinum (PL); Amytril (BR); Anapsique (MX); Antalin (CN); Conmitrip (TH); Domical (GB); Elatrol (IL); Elatrolet (IL); Elavil (FR); Endep (AU, NZ); Lantron (JP); Laroxyl (BF, BJ, CI, ET, FR, GH, GM, GN, IT, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, SC, SD, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Miketorin (JP); Neurotol (PY); Noriline (ZA); Pinsaun (TW); Protanol (BR); Psiquium (CO); Qualitriptine (HK); Redomex (BE); Saroten (BF, BJ, CI, CY, DE, DK, EE, ET, GH, GM, GN, GR, IR, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, PT, SC, SD, SE, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Saroten Retard (CH, MY, TW); Sarotena (IN); Sarotex (NL, NO, UY); Sarotex Retard (NO); Syneudon (DE); Teperin (HN, IQ, JO); Trepiline (ZA); Tridep (BG); Tripta (MY, TH); Triptanol (MX); Triptizol (IT); Trynol (TW); Tryptanol (AR, BR, JP, PE, TH); Tryptizol (AT, CH, EG, ES, GB, NL, PT, SE); Trytomer (IN); Uxen (AR)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — Increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Onset of action: Migraine prophylaxis: 6 weeks, higher dosage may be required in heavy smokers because of increased metabolism; Depression: 4-6 weeks, reduce dosage to lowest effective level
Distribution: Crosses placenta; enters breast milk
Metabolism: Hepatic to nortriptyline (active), hydroxy and conjugated derivatives; may be impaired in the elderly
Half-life elimination: Adults: 9-27 hours (average: 15 hours)
Time to peak, serum: ~4 hours
Excretion: Urine (18% as unchanged drug); feces (small amounts)
PATIENT INFORMATION — Do not discontinue medication abruptly. Full effect may not occur for 3-6 weeks. Avoid alcohol. May cause urine to turn blue-green. May cause drowsiness. Dry mouth may be helped by sips of water, sugarless gum, or hard candy.
Sound-alike/look-alike issues:
Amitriptyline may be confused with aminophylline, imipramine, nortriptyline
Elavil® may be confused with Aldoril®, Eldepryl®, enalapril, Equanil®, Mellaril®, Oruvail®, Plavix®
MEDICATION GUIDE — An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088622.pdf, must be dispensed with this medication for each new outpatient prescription and refill.
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
DOSING: ADULTS
Depression: Oral: 50-150 mg/day single dose at bedtime or in divided doses; dose may be gradually increased up to 300 mg/day.
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 25 mg at bedtime; may increase as tolerated to 100 mg/day.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; usual dose: 150 mg; reported dosing ranges: 10-400 mg/day
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (unlabeled use): Oral: 75-200 mg/day
DOSING: PEDIATRIC
(For additional information see "Amitriptyline: Pediatric drug information")
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.1 mg/kg at bedtime, may advance as tolerated over 2-3 weeks to 0.5-2 mg/kg at bedtime
Depressive disorders:
Children (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial doses of 1 mg/kg/day given in 3 divided doses with increases to 1.5 mg/kg/day have been reported in a small number of children (n=9) 9-12 years of age; clinically, doses up to 3 mg/kg/day (5 mg/kg/day if monitored closely) have been proposed
Adolescents: Initial: 25-50 mg/day; may administer in divided doses; increase gradually to 100 mg/day in divided doses.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.25 mg/kg/day, given at bedtime; increase dose by 0.25 mg/kg/day to maximum 1 mg/kg/day. Reported dosing ranges: 0.1-2 mg/kg/day; maximum suggested dose: 10 mg.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Depression: Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; dose should be increased in 10-25 mg increments every week if tolerated; dose range: 25-150 mg/day. See Renal/Hepatic Impairment.
DOSING: RENAL IMPAIRMENT — Nondialyzable
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Use with caution and monitor plasma levels and patient response.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, as hydrochloride: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Relief of symptoms of depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Analgesic for certain chronic and neuropathic pain; prophylaxis against migraine headaches; treatment of depressive disorders in children; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — Anticholinergic effects may be pronounced; moderate to marked sedation can occur (tolerance to these effects usually occurs).
Frequency not defined.
Cardiovascular: Orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, ECG changes (nonspecific), AV conduction changes, cardiomyopathy (rare), MI, stroke, heart block, arrhythmia, syncope, hypertension, palpitation
Central nervous system: Restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, sedation, fatigue, anxiety, cognitive function impaired, seizure, extrapyramidal symptoms, coma, hallucinations, confusion, disorientation, coordination impaired, ataxia, headache, nightmares, hyperpyrexia
Dermatologic: Allergic rash, urticaria, photosensitivity, alopecia
Endocrine & metabolic: Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion
Gastrointestinal: Weight gain, xerostomia, constipation, paralytic ileus, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis, peculiar taste, diarrhea, black tongue
Genitourinary: Urinary retention
Hematologic: Bone marrow depression, purpura, eosinophilia
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Numbness, paresthesia, peripheral neuropathy, tremor, weakness
Ocular: Blurred vision, mydriasis, ocular pressure increased
Otic: Tinnitus
Miscellaneous: Diaphoresis, withdrawal reactions (nausea, headache, malaise)
Postmarketing and/or case reports: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rare), serotonin syndrome (rare)
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other tricyclics may occur); use of MAO inhibitors within past 14 days; acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction; concurrent use of cisapride
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Suicidal thinking/behavior: .
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. Amitriptyline is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. The degree of anticholinergic blockade produced by this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Hematologic effects: TCAs may rarely cause bone marrow suppression; monitor for any signs of infection and obtain CBC if symptoms (eg, fever, sore throat) evident. Orthostatic hypotension: May cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: May cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is very high relative to other antidepressants.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation due to concerns of pro-arrhythmogenesis.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Anticholinergic and/or neuroleptic agents: Hyperpyrexia has been observed with TCAs in combination with anticholinergics and/or neuroleptics, particularly during hot weather. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue prior to elective surgery requiring general anesthesia. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS — Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): Anticholinergics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central). Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticholinergics. If the anticholinergic action is a side effect of the agent, the result may be beneficial. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS
Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (may increase CNS depression).
Food: Grapefruit juice may inhibit the metabolism of some TCAs and clinical toxicity may result.
Herb/Nutraceutical: St John's wort may decrease amitriptyline levels. Avoid valerian, St John's wort, kava kava, gotu kola (may increase CNS depression).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — C (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Teratogenic effects have been observed in animal studies. Amitriptyline crosses the human placenta; CNS effects, limb deformities and developmental delay have been noted in case reports.
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/not recommended (AAP rates "of concern")
BREAST-FEEDING CONSIDERATIONS — Generally, it is not recommended to breast-feed if taking antidepressants because of the long half-life, active metabolites, and the potential for side effects in the infant.
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Amitriptyline HCl)
25 mg (90): $11.99
50 mg (90): $12.99
75 mg (100): $14.44
100 mg (30): $13.99
150 mg (90): $21.98
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Monitor blood pressure and pulse rate prior to and during initial therapy; evaluate mental status, suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased); monitor weight; ECG in older adults and patients with cardiac disease
REFERENCE RANGE — Therapeutic: Amitriptyline and nortriptyline 100-250 ng/mL (SI: 360-900 nmol/L); nortriptyline 50-150 ng/mL (SI: 190-570 nmol/L); Toxic: >0.5 mcg/mL; plasma levels do not always correlate with clinical effectiveness
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Apo-Amitriptyline®; Levate®; Novo-Triptyn; PMS-Amitriptyline
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Adepril (IT); Amilit (IT); Amineurin (DE); Amiplin (TW); Amiprin (JP); Amitrip (NZ); Amitriptylinum (PL); Amytril (BR); Anapsique (MX); Antalin (CN); Conmitrip (TH); Domical (GB); Elatrol (IL); Elatrolet (IL); Elavil (FR); Endep (AU, NZ); Lantron (JP); Laroxyl (BF, BJ, CI, ET, FR, GH, GM, GN, IT, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, SC, SD, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Miketorin (JP); Neurotol (PY); Noriline (ZA); Pinsaun (TW); Protanol (BR); Psiquium (CO); Qualitriptine (HK); Redomex (BE); Saroten (BF, BJ, CI, CY, DE, DK, EE, ET, GH, GM, GN, GR, IR, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, PT, SC, SD, SE, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Saroten Retard (CH, MY, TW); Sarotena (IN); Sarotex (NL, NO, UY); Sarotex Retard (NO); Syneudon (DE); Teperin (HN, IQ, JO); Trepiline (ZA); Tridep (BG); Tripta (MY, TH); Triptanol (MX); Triptizol (IT); Trynol (TW); Tryptanol (AR, BR, JP, PE, TH); Tryptizol (AT, CH, EG, ES, GB, NL, PT, SE); Trytomer (IN); Uxen (AR)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — Increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Onset of action: Migraine prophylaxis: 6 weeks, higher dosage may be required in heavy smokers because of increased metabolism; Depression: 4-6 weeks, reduce dosage to lowest effective level
Distribution: Crosses placenta; enters breast milk
Metabolism: Hepatic to nortriptyline (active), hydroxy and conjugated derivatives; may be impaired in the elderly
Half-life elimination: Adults: 9-27 hours (average: 15 hours)
Time to peak, serum: ~4 hours
Excretion: Urine (18% as unchanged drug); feces (small amounts)
PATIENT INFORMATION — Do not discontinue medication abruptly. Full effect may not occur for 3-6 weeks. Avoid alcohol. May cause urine to turn blue-green. May cause drowsiness. Dry mouth may be helped by sips of water, sugarless gum, or hard candy.
Amitriptyline
MEDICATION SAFETY ISSUES
Sound-alike/look-alike issues:
Amitriptyline may be confused with aminophylline, imipramine, nortriptyline
Elavil® may be confused with Aldoril®, Eldepryl®, enalapril, Equanil®, Mellaril®, Oruvail®, Plavix®
MEDICATION GUIDE — An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088622.pdf, must be dispensed with this medication for each new outpatient prescription and refill.
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
DOSING: ADULTS
Depression: Oral: 50-150 mg/day single dose at bedtime or in divided doses; dose may be gradually increased up to 300 mg/day.
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 25 mg at bedtime; may increase as tolerated to 100 mg/day.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; usual dose: 150 mg; reported dosing ranges: 10-400 mg/day
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (unlabeled use): Oral: 75-200 mg/day
DOSING: PEDIATRIC
(For additional information see "Amitriptyline: Pediatric drug information")
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.1 mg/kg at bedtime, may advance as tolerated over 2-3 weeks to 0.5-2 mg/kg at bedtime
Depressive disorders:
Children (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial doses of 1 mg/kg/day given in 3 divided doses with increases to 1.5 mg/kg/day have been reported in a small number of children (n=9) 9-12 years of age; clinically, doses up to 3 mg/kg/day (5 mg/kg/day if monitored closely) have been proposed
Adolescents: Initial: 25-50 mg/day; may administer in divided doses; increase gradually to 100 mg/day in divided doses.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.25 mg/kg/day, given at bedtime; increase dose by 0.25 mg/kg/day to maximum 1 mg/kg/day. Reported dosing ranges: 0.1-2 mg/kg/day; maximum suggested dose: 10 mg.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Depression: Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; dose should be increased in 10-25 mg increments every week if tolerated; dose range: 25-150 mg/day. See Renal/Hepatic Impairment.
DOSING: RENAL IMPAIRMENT — Nondialyzable
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Use with caution and monitor plasma levels and patient response.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, as hydrochloride: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Relief of symptoms of depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Analgesic for certain chronic and neuropathic pain; prophylaxis against migraine headaches; treatment of depressive disorders in children; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — Anticholinergic effects may be pronounced; moderate to marked sedation can occur (tolerance to these effects usually occurs).
Frequency not defined.
Cardiovascular: Orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, ECG changes (nonspecific), AV conduction changes, cardiomyopathy (rare), MI, stroke, heart block, arrhythmia, syncope, hypertension, palpitation
Central nervous system: Restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, sedation, fatigue, anxiety, cognitive function impaired, seizure, extrapyramidal symptoms, coma, hallucinations, confusion, disorientation, coordination impaired, ataxia, headache, nightmares, hyperpyrexia
Dermatologic: Allergic rash, urticaria, photosensitivity, alopecia
Endocrine & metabolic: Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion
Gastrointestinal: Weight gain, xerostomia, constipation, paralytic ileus, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis, peculiar taste, diarrhea, black tongue
Genitourinary: Urinary retention
Hematologic: Bone marrow depression, purpura, eosinophilia
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Numbness, paresthesia, peripheral neuropathy, tremor, weakness
Ocular: Blurred vision, mydriasis, ocular pressure increased
Otic: Tinnitus
Miscellaneous: Diaphoresis, withdrawal reactions (nausea, headache, malaise)
Postmarketing and/or case reports: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rare), serotonin syndrome (rare)
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other tricyclics may occur); use of MAO inhibitors within past 14 days; acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction; concurrent use of cisapride
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Suicidal thinking/behavior: .
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. Amitriptyline is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. The degree of anticholinergic blockade produced by this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Hematologic effects: TCAs may rarely cause bone marrow suppression; monitor for any signs of infection and obtain CBC if symptoms (eg, fever, sore throat) evident. Orthostatic hypotension: May cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: May cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is very high relative to other antidepressants.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation due to concerns of pro-arrhythmogenesis.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Anticholinergic and/or neuroleptic agents: Hyperpyrexia has been observed with TCAs in combination with anticholinergics and/or neuroleptics, particularly during hot weather. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue prior to elective surgery requiring general anesthesia. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS — Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): Anticholinergics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central). Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticholinergics. If the anticholinergic action is a side effect of the agent, the result may be beneficial. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS
Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (may increase CNS depression).
Food: Grapefruit juice may inhibit the metabolism of some TCAs and clinical toxicity may result.
Herb/Nutraceutical: St John's wort may decrease amitriptyline levels. Avoid valerian, St John's wort, kava kava, gotu kola (may increase CNS depression).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — C (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Teratogenic effects have been observed in animal studies. Amitriptyline crosses the human placenta; CNS effects, limb deformities and developmental delay have been noted in case reports.
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/not recommended (AAP rates "of concern")
BREAST-FEEDING CONSIDERATIONS — Generally, it is not recommended to breast-feed if taking antidepressants because of the long half-life, active metabolites, and the potential for side effects in the infant.
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Amitriptyline HCl)
25 mg (90): $11.99
50 mg (90): $12.99
75 mg (100): $14.44
100 mg (30): $13.99
150 mg (90): $21.98
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Monitor blood pressure and pulse rate prior to and during initial therapy; evaluate mental status, suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased); monitor weight; ECG in older adults and patients with cardiac disease
REFERENCE RANGE — Therapeutic: Amitriptyline and nortriptyline 100-250 ng/mL (SI: 360-900 nmol/L); nortriptyline 50-150 ng/mL (SI: 190-570 nmol/L); Toxic: >0.5 mcg/mL; plasma levels do not always correlate with clinical effectiveness
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Apo-Amitriptyline®; Levate®; Novo-Triptyn; PMS-Amitriptyline
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Adepril (IT); Amilit (IT); Amineurin (DE); Amiplin (TW); Amiprin (JP); Amitrip (NZ); Amitriptylinum (PL); Amytril (BR); Anapsique (MX); Antalin (CN); Conmitrip (TH); Domical (GB); Elatrol (IL); Elatrolet (IL); Elavil (FR); Endep (AU, NZ); Lantron (JP); Laroxyl (BF, BJ, CI, ET, FR, GH, GM, GN, IT, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, SC, SD, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Miketorin (JP); Neurotol (PY); Noriline (ZA); Pinsaun (TW); Protanol (BR); Psiquium (CO); Qualitriptine (HK); Redomex (BE); Saroten (BF, BJ, CI, CY, DE, DK, EE, ET, GH, GM, GN, GR, IR, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, PT, SC, SD, SE, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Saroten Retard (CH, MY, TW); Sarotena (IN); Sarotex (NL, NO, UY); Sarotex Retard (NO); Syneudon (DE); Teperin (HN, IQ, JO); Trepiline (ZA); Tridep (BG); Tripta (MY, TH); Triptanol (MX); Triptizol (IT); Trynol (TW); Tryptanol (AR, BR, JP, PE, TH); Tryptizol (AT, CH, EG, ES, GB, NL, PT, SE); Trytomer (IN); Uxen (AR)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — Increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Onset of action: Migraine prophylaxis: 6 weeks, higher dosage may be required in heavy smokers because of increased metabolism; Depression: 4-6 weeks, reduce dosage to lowest effective level
Distribution: Crosses placenta; enters breast milk
Metabolism: Hepatic to nortriptyline (active), hydroxy and conjugated derivatives; may be impaired in the elderly
Half-life elimination: Adults: 9-27 hours (average: 15 hours)
Time to peak, serum: ~4 hours
Excretion: Urine (18% as unchanged drug); feces (small amounts)
PATIENT INFORMATION — Do not discontinue medication abruptly. Full effect may not occur for 3-6 weeks. Avoid alcohol. May cause urine to turn blue-green. May cause drowsiness. Dry mouth may be helped by sips of water, sugarless gum, or hard candy.
Sound-alike/look-alike issues:
Amitriptyline may be confused with aminophylline, imipramine, nortriptyline
Elavil® may be confused with Aldoril®, Eldepryl®, enalapril, Equanil®, Mellaril®, Oruvail®, Plavix®
MEDICATION GUIDE — An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088622.pdf, must be dispensed with this medication for each new outpatient prescription and refill.
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
DOSING: ADULTS
Depression: Oral: 50-150 mg/day single dose at bedtime or in divided doses; dose may be gradually increased up to 300 mg/day.
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 25 mg at bedtime; may increase as tolerated to 100 mg/day.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; usual dose: 150 mg; reported dosing ranges: 10-400 mg/day
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (unlabeled use): Oral: 75-200 mg/day
DOSING: PEDIATRIC
(For additional information see "Amitriptyline: Pediatric drug information")
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.1 mg/kg at bedtime, may advance as tolerated over 2-3 weeks to 0.5-2 mg/kg at bedtime
Depressive disorders:
Children (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial doses of 1 mg/kg/day given in 3 divided doses with increases to 1.5 mg/kg/day have been reported in a small number of children (n=9) 9-12 years of age; clinically, doses up to 3 mg/kg/day (5 mg/kg/day if monitored closely) have been proposed
Adolescents: Initial: 25-50 mg/day; may administer in divided doses; increase gradually to 100 mg/day in divided doses.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.25 mg/kg/day, given at bedtime; increase dose by 0.25 mg/kg/day to maximum 1 mg/kg/day. Reported dosing ranges: 0.1-2 mg/kg/day; maximum suggested dose: 10 mg.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Depression: Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; dose should be increased in 10-25 mg increments every week if tolerated; dose range: 25-150 mg/day. See Renal/Hepatic Impairment.
DOSING: RENAL IMPAIRMENT — Nondialyzable
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Use with caution and monitor plasma levels and patient response.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, as hydrochloride: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Relief of symptoms of depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Analgesic for certain chronic and neuropathic pain; prophylaxis against migraine headaches; treatment of depressive disorders in children; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — Anticholinergic effects may be pronounced; moderate to marked sedation can occur (tolerance to these effects usually occurs).
Frequency not defined.
Cardiovascular: Orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, ECG changes (nonspecific), AV conduction changes, cardiomyopathy (rare), MI, stroke, heart block, arrhythmia, syncope, hypertension, palpitation
Central nervous system: Restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, sedation, fatigue, anxiety, cognitive function impaired, seizure, extrapyramidal symptoms, coma, hallucinations, confusion, disorientation, coordination impaired, ataxia, headache, nightmares, hyperpyrexia
Dermatologic: Allergic rash, urticaria, photosensitivity, alopecia
Endocrine & metabolic: Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion
Gastrointestinal: Weight gain, xerostomia, constipation, paralytic ileus, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis, peculiar taste, diarrhea, black tongue
Genitourinary: Urinary retention
Hematologic: Bone marrow depression, purpura, eosinophilia
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Numbness, paresthesia, peripheral neuropathy, tremor, weakness
Ocular: Blurred vision, mydriasis, ocular pressure increased
Otic: Tinnitus
Miscellaneous: Diaphoresis, withdrawal reactions (nausea, headache, malaise)
Postmarketing and/or case reports: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rare), serotonin syndrome (rare)
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other tricyclics may occur); use of MAO inhibitors within past 14 days; acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction; concurrent use of cisapride
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Suicidal thinking/behavior: .
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. Amitriptyline is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. The degree of anticholinergic blockade produced by this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Hematologic effects: TCAs may rarely cause bone marrow suppression; monitor for any signs of infection and obtain CBC if symptoms (eg, fever, sore throat) evident. Orthostatic hypotension: May cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: May cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is very high relative to other antidepressants.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation due to concerns of pro-arrhythmogenesis.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Anticholinergic and/or neuroleptic agents: Hyperpyrexia has been observed with TCAs in combination with anticholinergics and/or neuroleptics, particularly during hot weather. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue prior to elective surgery requiring general anesthesia. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS — Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): Anticholinergics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central). Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticholinergics. If the anticholinergic action is a side effect of the agent, the result may be beneficial. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS
Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (may increase CNS depression).
Food: Grapefruit juice may inhibit the metabolism of some TCAs and clinical toxicity may result.
Herb/Nutraceutical: St John's wort may decrease amitriptyline levels. Avoid valerian, St John's wort, kava kava, gotu kola (may increase CNS depression).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — C (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Teratogenic effects have been observed in animal studies. Amitriptyline crosses the human placenta; CNS effects, limb deformities and developmental delay have been noted in case reports.
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/not recommended (AAP rates "of concern")
BREAST-FEEDING CONSIDERATIONS — Generally, it is not recommended to breast-feed if taking antidepressants because of the long half-life, active metabolites, and the potential for side effects in the infant.
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Amitriptyline HCl)
25 mg (90): $11.99
50 mg (90): $12.99
75 mg (100): $14.44
100 mg (30): $13.99
150 mg (90): $21.98
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Monitor blood pressure and pulse rate prior to and during initial therapy; evaluate mental status, suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased); monitor weight; ECG in older adults and patients with cardiac disease
REFERENCE RANGE — Therapeutic: Amitriptyline and nortriptyline 100-250 ng/mL (SI: 360-900 nmol/L); nortriptyline 50-150 ng/mL (SI: 190-570 nmol/L); Toxic: >0.5 mcg/mL; plasma levels do not always correlate with clinical effectiveness
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Apo-Amitriptyline®; Levate®; Novo-Triptyn; PMS-Amitriptyline
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Adepril (IT); Amilit (IT); Amineurin (DE); Amiplin (TW); Amiprin (JP); Amitrip (NZ); Amitriptylinum (PL); Amytril (BR); Anapsique (MX); Antalin (CN); Conmitrip (TH); Domical (GB); Elatrol (IL); Elatrolet (IL); Elavil (FR); Endep (AU, NZ); Lantron (JP); Laroxyl (BF, BJ, CI, ET, FR, GH, GM, GN, IT, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, SC, SD, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Miketorin (JP); Neurotol (PY); Noriline (ZA); Pinsaun (TW); Protanol (BR); Psiquium (CO); Qualitriptine (HK); Redomex (BE); Saroten (BF, BJ, CI, CY, DE, DK, EE, ET, GH, GM, GN, GR, IR, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, PT, SC, SD, SE, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Saroten Retard (CH, MY, TW); Sarotena (IN); Sarotex (NL, NO, UY); Sarotex Retard (NO); Syneudon (DE); Teperin (HN, IQ, JO); Trepiline (ZA); Tridep (BG); Tripta (MY, TH); Triptanol (MX); Triptizol (IT); Trynol (TW); Tryptanol (AR, BR, JP, PE, TH); Tryptizol (AT, CH, EG, ES, GB, NL, PT, SE); Trytomer (IN); Uxen (AR)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — Increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Onset of action: Migraine prophylaxis: 6 weeks, higher dosage may be required in heavy smokers because of increased metabolism; Depression: 4-6 weeks, reduce dosage to lowest effective level
Distribution: Crosses placenta; enters breast milk
Metabolism: Hepatic to nortriptyline (active), hydroxy and conjugated derivatives; may be impaired in the elderly
Half-life elimination: Adults: 9-27 hours (average: 15 hours)
Time to peak, serum: ~4 hours
Excretion: Urine (18% as unchanged drug); feces (small amounts)
PATIENT INFORMATION — Do not discontinue medication abruptly. Full effect may not occur for 3-6 weeks. Avoid alcohol. May cause urine to turn blue-green. May cause drowsiness. Dry mouth may be helped by sips of water, sugarless gum, or hard candy.
Amitriptyline
MEDICATION SAFETY ISSUES
Sound-alike/look-alike issues:
Amitriptyline may be confused with aminophylline, imipramine, nortriptyline
Elavil® may be confused with Aldoril®, Eldepryl®, enalapril, Equanil®, Mellaril®, Oruvail®, Plavix®
MEDICATION GUIDE — An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088622.pdf, must be dispensed with this medication for each new outpatient prescription and refill.
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
DOSING: ADULTS
Depression: Oral: 50-150 mg/day single dose at bedtime or in divided doses; dose may be gradually increased up to 300 mg/day.
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 25 mg at bedtime; may increase as tolerated to 100 mg/day.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; usual dose: 150 mg; reported dosing ranges: 10-400 mg/day
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (unlabeled use): Oral: 75-200 mg/day
DOSING: PEDIATRIC
(For additional information see "Amitriptyline: Pediatric drug information")
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.1 mg/kg at bedtime, may advance as tolerated over 2-3 weeks to 0.5-2 mg/kg at bedtime
Depressive disorders:
Children (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial doses of 1 mg/kg/day given in 3 divided doses with increases to 1.5 mg/kg/day have been reported in a small number of children (n=9) 9-12 years of age; clinically, doses up to 3 mg/kg/day (5 mg/kg/day if monitored closely) have been proposed
Adolescents: Initial: 25-50 mg/day; may administer in divided doses; increase gradually to 100 mg/day in divided doses.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.25 mg/kg/day, given at bedtime; increase dose by 0.25 mg/kg/day to maximum 1 mg/kg/day. Reported dosing ranges: 0.1-2 mg/kg/day; maximum suggested dose: 10 mg.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Depression: Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; dose should be increased in 10-25 mg increments every week if tolerated; dose range: 25-150 mg/day. See Renal/Hepatic Impairment.
DOSING: RENAL IMPAIRMENT — Nondialyzable
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Use with caution and monitor plasma levels and patient response.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, as hydrochloride: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Relief of symptoms of depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Analgesic for certain chronic and neuropathic pain; prophylaxis against migraine headaches; treatment of depressive disorders in children; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — Anticholinergic effects may be pronounced; moderate to marked sedation can occur (tolerance to these effects usually occurs).
Frequency not defined.
Cardiovascular: Orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, ECG changes (nonspecific), AV conduction changes, cardiomyopathy (rare), MI, stroke, heart block, arrhythmia, syncope, hypertension, palpitation
Central nervous system: Restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, sedation, fatigue, anxiety, cognitive function impaired, seizure, extrapyramidal symptoms, coma, hallucinations, confusion, disorientation, coordination impaired, ataxia, headache, nightmares, hyperpyrexia
Dermatologic: Allergic rash, urticaria, photosensitivity, alopecia
Endocrine & metabolic: Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion
Gastrointestinal: Weight gain, xerostomia, constipation, paralytic ileus, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis, peculiar taste, diarrhea, black tongue
Genitourinary: Urinary retention
Hematologic: Bone marrow depression, purpura, eosinophilia
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Numbness, paresthesia, peripheral neuropathy, tremor, weakness
Ocular: Blurred vision, mydriasis, ocular pressure increased
Otic: Tinnitus
Miscellaneous: Diaphoresis, withdrawal reactions (nausea, headache, malaise)
Postmarketing and/or case reports: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rare), serotonin syndrome (rare)
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other tricyclics may occur); use of MAO inhibitors within past 14 days; acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction; concurrent use of cisapride
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Suicidal thinking/behavior: .
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. Amitriptyline is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. The degree of anticholinergic blockade produced by this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Hematologic effects: TCAs may rarely cause bone marrow suppression; monitor for any signs of infection and obtain CBC if symptoms (eg, fever, sore throat) evident. Orthostatic hypotension: May cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: May cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is very high relative to other antidepressants.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation due to concerns of pro-arrhythmogenesis.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Anticholinergic and/or neuroleptic agents: Hyperpyrexia has been observed with TCAs in combination with anticholinergics and/or neuroleptics, particularly during hot weather. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue prior to elective surgery requiring general anesthesia. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS — Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): Anticholinergics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central). Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticholinergics. If the anticholinergic action is a side effect of the agent, the result may be beneficial. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS
Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (may increase CNS depression).
Food: Grapefruit juice may inhibit the metabolism of some TCAs and clinical toxicity may result.
Herb/Nutraceutical: St John's wort may decrease amitriptyline levels. Avoid valerian, St John's wort, kava kava, gotu kola (may increase CNS depression).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — C (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Teratogenic effects have been observed in animal studies. Amitriptyline crosses the human placenta; CNS effects, limb deformities and developmental delay have been noted in case reports.
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/not recommended (AAP rates "of concern")
BREAST-FEEDING CONSIDERATIONS — Generally, it is not recommended to breast-feed if taking antidepressants because of the long half-life, active metabolites, and the potential for side effects in the infant.
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Amitriptyline HCl)
25 mg (90): $11.99
50 mg (90): $12.99
75 mg (100): $14.44
100 mg (30): $13.99
150 mg (90): $21.98
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Monitor blood pressure and pulse rate prior to and during initial therapy; evaluate mental status, suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased); monitor weight; ECG in older adults and patients with cardiac disease
REFERENCE RANGE — Therapeutic: Amitriptyline and nortriptyline 100-250 ng/mL (SI: 360-900 nmol/L); nortriptyline 50-150 ng/mL (SI: 190-570 nmol/L); Toxic: >0.5 mcg/mL; plasma levels do not always correlate with clinical effectiveness
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Apo-Amitriptyline®; Levate®; Novo-Triptyn; PMS-Amitriptyline
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Adepril (IT); Amilit (IT); Amineurin (DE); Amiplin (TW); Amiprin (JP); Amitrip (NZ); Amitriptylinum (PL); Amytril (BR); Anapsique (MX); Antalin (CN); Conmitrip (TH); Domical (GB); Elatrol (IL); Elatrolet (IL); Elavil (FR); Endep (AU, NZ); Lantron (JP); Laroxyl (BF, BJ, CI, ET, FR, GH, GM, GN, IT, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, SC, SD, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Miketorin (JP); Neurotol (PY); Noriline (ZA); Pinsaun (TW); Protanol (BR); Psiquium (CO); Qualitriptine (HK); Redomex (BE); Saroten (BF, BJ, CI, CY, DE, DK, EE, ET, GH, GM, GN, GR, IR, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, PT, SC, SD, SE, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Saroten Retard (CH, MY, TW); Sarotena (IN); Sarotex (NL, NO, UY); Sarotex Retard (NO); Syneudon (DE); Teperin (HN, IQ, JO); Trepiline (ZA); Tridep (BG); Tripta (MY, TH); Triptanol (MX); Triptizol (IT); Trynol (TW); Tryptanol (AR, BR, JP, PE, TH); Tryptizol (AT, CH, EG, ES, GB, NL, PT, SE); Trytomer (IN); Uxen (AR)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — Increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Onset of action: Migraine prophylaxis: 6 weeks, higher dosage may be required in heavy smokers because of increased metabolism; Depression: 4-6 weeks, reduce dosage to lowest effective level
Distribution: Crosses placenta; enters breast milk
Metabolism: Hepatic to nortriptyline (active), hydroxy and conjugated derivatives; may be impaired in the elderly
Half-life elimination: Adults: 9-27 hours (average: 15 hours)
Time to peak, serum: ~4 hours
Excretion: Urine (18% as unchanged drug); feces (small amounts)
PATIENT INFORMATION — Do not discontinue medication abruptly. Full effect may not occur for 3-6 weeks. Avoid alcohol. May cause urine to turn blue-green. May cause drowsiness. Dry mouth may be helped by sips of water, sugarless gum, or hard candy.
Sound-alike/look-alike issues:
Amitriptyline may be confused with aminophylline, imipramine, nortriptyline
Elavil® may be confused with Aldoril®, Eldepryl®, enalapril, Equanil®, Mellaril®, Oruvail®, Plavix®
MEDICATION GUIDE — An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088622.pdf, must be dispensed with this medication for each new outpatient prescription and refill.
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
DOSING: ADULTS
Depression: Oral: 50-150 mg/day single dose at bedtime or in divided doses; dose may be gradually increased up to 300 mg/day.
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 25 mg at bedtime; may increase as tolerated to 100 mg/day.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; usual dose: 150 mg; reported dosing ranges: 10-400 mg/day
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (unlabeled use): Oral: 75-200 mg/day
DOSING: PEDIATRIC
(For additional information see "Amitriptyline: Pediatric drug information")
Chronic pain management (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.1 mg/kg at bedtime, may advance as tolerated over 2-3 weeks to 0.5-2 mg/kg at bedtime
Depressive disorders:
Children (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial doses of 1 mg/kg/day given in 3 divided doses with increases to 1.5 mg/kg/day have been reported in a small number of children (n=9) 9-12 years of age; clinically, doses up to 3 mg/kg/day (5 mg/kg/day if monitored closely) have been proposed
Adolescents: Initial: 25-50 mg/day; may administer in divided doses; increase gradually to 100 mg/day in divided doses.
Migraine prophylaxis (unlabeled use): Oral: Initial: 0.25 mg/kg/day, given at bedtime; increase dose by 0.25 mg/kg/day to maximum 1 mg/kg/day. Reported dosing ranges: 0.1-2 mg/kg/day; maximum suggested dose: 10 mg.
DOSING: ELDERLY — Depression: Oral: Initial: 10-25 mg at bedtime; dose should be increased in 10-25 mg increments every week if tolerated; dose range: 25-150 mg/day. See Renal/Hepatic Impairment.
DOSING: RENAL IMPAIRMENT — Nondialyzable
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Use with caution and monitor plasma levels and patient response.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, as hydrochloride: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Relief of symptoms of depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Analgesic for certain chronic and neuropathic pain; prophylaxis against migraine headaches; treatment of depressive disorders in children; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — Anticholinergic effects may be pronounced; moderate to marked sedation can occur (tolerance to these effects usually occurs).
Frequency not defined.
Cardiovascular: Orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, ECG changes (nonspecific), AV conduction changes, cardiomyopathy (rare), MI, stroke, heart block, arrhythmia, syncope, hypertension, palpitation
Central nervous system: Restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, sedation, fatigue, anxiety, cognitive function impaired, seizure, extrapyramidal symptoms, coma, hallucinations, confusion, disorientation, coordination impaired, ataxia, headache, nightmares, hyperpyrexia
Dermatologic: Allergic rash, urticaria, photosensitivity, alopecia
Endocrine & metabolic: Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion
Gastrointestinal: Weight gain, xerostomia, constipation, paralytic ileus, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis, peculiar taste, diarrhea, black tongue
Genitourinary: Urinary retention
Hematologic: Bone marrow depression, purpura, eosinophilia
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Numbness, paresthesia, peripheral neuropathy, tremor, weakness
Ocular: Blurred vision, mydriasis, ocular pressure increased
Otic: Tinnitus
Miscellaneous: Diaphoresis, withdrawal reactions (nausea, headache, malaise)
Postmarketing and/or case reports: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (rare), serotonin syndrome (rare)
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other tricyclics may occur); use of MAO inhibitors within past 14 days; acute recovery phase following myocardial infarction; concurrent use of cisapride
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Suicidal thinking/behavior: .
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. Amitriptyline is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. The degree of anticholinergic blockade produced by this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Hematologic effects: TCAs may rarely cause bone marrow suppression; monitor for any signs of infection and obtain CBC if symptoms (eg, fever, sore throat) evident. Orthostatic hypotension: May cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: May cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is very high relative to other antidepressants.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation due to concerns of pro-arrhythmogenesis.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Anticholinergic and/or neuroleptic agents: Hyperpyrexia has been observed with TCAs in combination with anticholinergics and/or neuroleptics, particularly during hot weather. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue prior to elective surgery requiring general anesthesia. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS — Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): Anticholinergics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central). Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticholinergics. If the anticholinergic action is a side effect of the agent, the result may be beneficial. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS
Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (may increase CNS depression).
Food: Grapefruit juice may inhibit the metabolism of some TCAs and clinical toxicity may result.
Herb/Nutraceutical: St John's wort may decrease amitriptyline levels. Avoid valerian, St John's wort, kava kava, gotu kola (may increase CNS depression).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — C (show table)
PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS — Teratogenic effects have been observed in animal studies. Amitriptyline crosses the human placenta; CNS effects, limb deformities and developmental delay have been noted in case reports.
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/not recommended (AAP rates "of concern")
BREAST-FEEDING CONSIDERATIONS — Generally, it is not recommended to breast-feed if taking antidepressants because of the long half-life, active metabolites, and the potential for side effects in the infant.
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Amitriptyline HCl)
25 mg (90): $11.99
50 mg (90): $12.99
75 mg (100): $14.44
100 mg (30): $13.99
150 mg (90): $21.98
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Monitor blood pressure and pulse rate prior to and during initial therapy; evaluate mental status, suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased); monitor weight; ECG in older adults and patients with cardiac disease
REFERENCE RANGE — Therapeutic: Amitriptyline and nortriptyline 100-250 ng/mL (SI: 360-900 nmol/L); nortriptyline 50-150 ng/mL (SI: 190-570 nmol/L); Toxic: >0.5 mcg/mL; plasma levels do not always correlate with clinical effectiveness
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Apo-Amitriptyline®; Levate®; Novo-Triptyn; PMS-Amitriptyline
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Adepril (IT); Amilit (IT); Amineurin (DE); Amiplin (TW); Amiprin (JP); Amitrip (NZ); Amitriptylinum (PL); Amytril (BR); Anapsique (MX); Antalin (CN); Conmitrip (TH); Domical (GB); Elatrol (IL); Elatrolet (IL); Elavil (FR); Endep (AU, NZ); Lantron (JP); Laroxyl (BF, BJ, CI, ET, FR, GH, GM, GN, IT, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, SC, SD, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Miketorin (JP); Neurotol (PY); Noriline (ZA); Pinsaun (TW); Protanol (BR); Psiquium (CO); Qualitriptine (HK); Redomex (BE); Saroten (BF, BJ, CI, CY, DE, DK, EE, ET, GH, GM, GN, GR, IR, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, PT, SC, SD, SE, SL, SN, TN, TZ, UG, ZA, ZM, ZW); Saroten Retard (CH, MY, TW); Sarotena (IN); Sarotex (NL, NO, UY); Sarotex Retard (NO); Syneudon (DE); Teperin (HN, IQ, JO); Trepiline (ZA); Tridep (BG); Tripta (MY, TH); Triptanol (MX); Triptizol (IT); Trynol (TW); Tryptanol (AR, BR, JP, PE, TH); Tryptizol (AT, CH, EG, ES, GB, NL, PT, SE); Trytomer (IN); Uxen (AR)
MECHANISM OF ACTION — Increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS
Onset of action: Migraine prophylaxis: 6 weeks, higher dosage may be required in heavy smokers because of increased metabolism; Depression: 4-6 weeks, reduce dosage to lowest effective level
Distribution: Crosses placenta; enters breast milk
Metabolism: Hepatic to nortriptyline (active), hydroxy and conjugated derivatives; may be impaired in the elderly
Half-life elimination: Adults: 9-27 hours (average: 15 hours)
Time to peak, serum: ~4 hours
Excretion: Urine (18% as unchanged drug); feces (small amounts)
PATIENT INFORMATION — Do not discontinue medication abruptly. Full effect may not occur for 3-6 weeks. Avoid alcohol. May cause urine to turn blue-green. May cause drowsiness. Dry mouth may be helped by sips of water, sugarless gum, or hard candy.
Amitriptyline and perphenazine
MEDICATION GUIDE — An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088622.pdf, must be dispensed with this medication for each new outpatient prescription and refill.
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
Antipsychotic Agent, Typical, Phenothiazine
DOSING: ADULTS — Depression and anxiety: Oral: 1 tablet 2-4 times/day
DOSING: ELDERLY — Refer to adult dosing.
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Avoid use in severe hepatic failure.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet:
2-10: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 10 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
2-25: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 25 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
4-10: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 10 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-25: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 25 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-50: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 50 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet:
Generics:
2-10: Amitriptyline 10 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
2-25: Amitriptyline 25 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
4-10: Amitriptyline 10 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-25: Amitriptyline 25 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-50: Amitriptyline 50 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Depression with psychotic features
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — See individual agents.
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline, perphenazine, or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other phenothiazines may exist); angle-closure glaucoma; bone marrow depression; severe liver or cardiac disease; pregnancy
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Dementia: See "Disease-related concerns" below. Suicidal thinking/behavior: See "Major psychiatric warnings" below.
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age; this combination is not FDA approved for use in children. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. This combination is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Altered cardiac conduction: May alter cardiac conduction; life-threatening arrhythmias have occurred with therapeutic doses of antipsychotics. Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. Relative to other neuroleptics, perphenazine has a low potency of cholinergic blockade and relative to other antidepressants amitriptyline has a high potential for cholinergic blockade. Blood dyscrasias: Check blood counts periodically and discontinue at first signs of blood dyscrasias; use is contraindicated in patients with bone marrow suppression. Esophageal dysmotility/aspiration: Antipsychotic use has been associated with esophageal dysmotility and aspiration; use with caution in patients at risk of pneumonia (ie, Alzheimer's disease). Extrapyramidal symptoms: May cause extrapyramidal symptoms, including pseudoparkinsonism, acute dystonic reactions, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia (risk of these reactions is moderate-high relative to other neuroleptics). Hyperprolactinemia: Perphenazine use is associated with increased prolactin levels; clinical significance of hyperprolactinemia in patients with breast cancer or other prolactin-dependent tumors is unknown. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): Use of perphenazine may be associated with NMS; monitor for mental status changes, fever, muscle rigidity, and/or autonomic instability. Ocular effects: Perphenazine may cause pigmentary retinopathy, and lenticular and corneal deposits, particularly with prolonged therapy. Orthostatic hypotension: Both agents may cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: Both agents may cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is high relative to other antidepressants. SIADH and hyponatremia: Has been associated with the development of SIADH and hyponatremia. Temperature regulation: Impaired core body temperature regulation may occur with perphenazine use; caution with strenuous exercise, heat exposure, dehydration, and concomitant medication possessing anticholinergic effects.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use both agents with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Dementia: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotics are at an increased risk of death compared to placebo. Most deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (eg, heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (eg, pneumonia) in nature. Perphenazine is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis. Diabetes: Use amitriptyline with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Glaucoma: Use with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma; condition may be exacerbated by cholinergic blockade. Hepatic impairment: Use both agents with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Myasthenia gravis: Use with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis; condition may be exacerbated by cholinergic blockade. Parkinson's disease: Use perphenazine with caution in patients with Parkinson's disease; they may be more sensitive to adverse effects. Renal impairment: Use both agents with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use both agents with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Antiemetic effects: Perphenazine may mask toxicity of other drugs or conditions (eg, intestinal obstruction, Reye's syndrome, brain tumor) due to antiemetic effects. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly; increased risk for developing tardive dyskinesia from perphenazine. Poor metabloizers: Use with caution in patients with reduced functional alleles of CYP2D6. Poor metabolizers may have higher plasma concentrations at usual doses, increasing risk for adverse reactions.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue several days prior to elective surgery. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS
Amitriptyline: Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
Perphenazine: Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2D6 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): May enhance the neurotoxic (central) effect of Antipsychotics. Severe extrapyramidal symptoms have occurred in some patients. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Antipsychotics may diminish the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Analgesics (Opioid): Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may enhance the hypotensive effect of Analgesics (Opioid). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antacids: May decrease the absorption of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antimalarial Agents: May increase the serum concentration of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anti-Parkinson's Agents (Dopamine Agonist): Antipsychotics (Typical) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson's Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Beta-Blockers: Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may enhance the hypotensive effect of Beta-Blockers. Beta-Blockers may decrease the metabolism of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may decrease the metabolism of Beta-Blockers. Exceptions: Atenolol; Levobunolol; Metipranolol; Nadolol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lithium formulations: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Antipsychotics. Lithium formulations may decrease the serum concentration of Antipsychotics. Specifically noted with chlorpromazine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Tetrabenazine: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Antipsychotics. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS — Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (due to increased sedation).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — D (show table)
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/contraindicated
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Perphenazine-Amitriptyline)
2-10 mg (60): $16.99
2-25 mg (30): $13.99
4-25 mg (60): $19.99
4-50 mg (60): $27.99
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Vital signs; lipid profile, fasting blood glucose/Hb A1c; BMI, weight; mental status, abnormal involuntary movement scale (AIMS), extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased)
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Etrafon®
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Mutabon A (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon D (AE, AR, BH, CN, CY, EG, ID, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, PY, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon F (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon M (AE, BH, CY, EG, ID, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon-A (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-D (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-F (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-M (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Neuragon-A (TH); Neuragon-B (TH); Polybon (TH); Triptafen (GB); Triptafen M (GB)
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Amitriptyline increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane.
Perphenazine is a piperazine phenothiazine antipsychotic which blocks postsynaptic mesolimbic dopaminergic receptors in the brain; exhibits alpha-adrenergic blocking effect and depresses the release of hypothalamic and hypophyseal hormones.
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS — See individual agents
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
Antipsychotic Agent, Typical, Phenothiazine
DOSING: ADULTS — Depression and anxiety: Oral: 1 tablet 2-4 times/day
DOSING: ELDERLY — Refer to adult dosing.
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Avoid use in severe hepatic failure.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet:
2-10: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 10 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
2-25: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 25 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
4-10: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 10 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-25: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 25 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-50: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 50 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet:
Generics:
2-10: Amitriptyline 10 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
2-25: Amitriptyline 25 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
4-10: Amitriptyline 10 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-25: Amitriptyline 25 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-50: Amitriptyline 50 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Depression with psychotic features
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — See individual agents.
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline, perphenazine, or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other phenothiazines may exist); angle-closure glaucoma; bone marrow depression; severe liver or cardiac disease; pregnancy
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Dementia: See "Disease-related concerns" below. Suicidal thinking/behavior: See "Major psychiatric warnings" below.
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age; this combination is not FDA approved for use in children. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. This combination is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Altered cardiac conduction: May alter cardiac conduction; life-threatening arrhythmias have occurred with therapeutic doses of antipsychotics. Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. Relative to other neuroleptics, perphenazine has a low potency of cholinergic blockade and relative to other antidepressants amitriptyline has a high potential for cholinergic blockade. Blood dyscrasias: Check blood counts periodically and discontinue at first signs of blood dyscrasias; use is contraindicated in patients with bone marrow suppression. Esophageal dysmotility/aspiration: Antipsychotic use has been associated with esophageal dysmotility and aspiration; use with caution in patients at risk of pneumonia (ie, Alzheimer's disease). Extrapyramidal symptoms: May cause extrapyramidal symptoms, including pseudoparkinsonism, acute dystonic reactions, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia (risk of these reactions is moderate-high relative to other neuroleptics). Hyperprolactinemia: Perphenazine use is associated with increased prolactin levels; clinical significance of hyperprolactinemia in patients with breast cancer or other prolactin-dependent tumors is unknown. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): Use of perphenazine may be associated with NMS; monitor for mental status changes, fever, muscle rigidity, and/or autonomic instability. Ocular effects: Perphenazine may cause pigmentary retinopathy, and lenticular and corneal deposits, particularly with prolonged therapy. Orthostatic hypotension: Both agents may cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: Both agents may cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is high relative to other antidepressants. SIADH and hyponatremia: Has been associated with the development of SIADH and hyponatremia. Temperature regulation: Impaired core body temperature regulation may occur with perphenazine use; caution with strenuous exercise, heat exposure, dehydration, and concomitant medication possessing anticholinergic effects.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use both agents with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Dementia: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotics are at an increased risk of death compared to placebo. Most deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (eg, heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (eg, pneumonia) in nature. Perphenazine is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis. Diabetes: Use amitriptyline with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Glaucoma: Use with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma; condition may be exacerbated by cholinergic blockade. Hepatic impairment: Use both agents with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Myasthenia gravis: Use with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis; condition may be exacerbated by cholinergic blockade. Parkinson's disease: Use perphenazine with caution in patients with Parkinson's disease; they may be more sensitive to adverse effects. Renal impairment: Use both agents with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use both agents with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Antiemetic effects: Perphenazine may mask toxicity of other drugs or conditions (eg, intestinal obstruction, Reye's syndrome, brain tumor) due to antiemetic effects. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly; increased risk for developing tardive dyskinesia from perphenazine. Poor metabloizers: Use with caution in patients with reduced functional alleles of CYP2D6. Poor metabolizers may have higher plasma concentrations at usual doses, increasing risk for adverse reactions.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue several days prior to elective surgery. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS
Amitriptyline: Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
Perphenazine: Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2D6 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): May enhance the neurotoxic (central) effect of Antipsychotics. Severe extrapyramidal symptoms have occurred in some patients. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Antipsychotics may diminish the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Analgesics (Opioid): Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may enhance the hypotensive effect of Analgesics (Opioid). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antacids: May decrease the absorption of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antimalarial Agents: May increase the serum concentration of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anti-Parkinson's Agents (Dopamine Agonist): Antipsychotics (Typical) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson's Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Beta-Blockers: Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may enhance the hypotensive effect of Beta-Blockers. Beta-Blockers may decrease the metabolism of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may decrease the metabolism of Beta-Blockers. Exceptions: Atenolol; Levobunolol; Metipranolol; Nadolol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lithium formulations: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Antipsychotics. Lithium formulations may decrease the serum concentration of Antipsychotics. Specifically noted with chlorpromazine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Tetrabenazine: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Antipsychotics. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS — Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (due to increased sedation).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — D (show table)
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/contraindicated
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Perphenazine-Amitriptyline)
2-10 mg (60): $16.99
2-25 mg (30): $13.99
4-25 mg (60): $19.99
4-50 mg (60): $27.99
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Vital signs; lipid profile, fasting blood glucose/Hb A1c; BMI, weight; mental status, abnormal involuntary movement scale (AIMS), extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased)
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Etrafon®
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Mutabon A (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon D (AE, AR, BH, CN, CY, EG, ID, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, PY, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon F (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon M (AE, BH, CY, EG, ID, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon-A (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-D (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-F (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-M (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Neuragon-A (TH); Neuragon-B (TH); Polybon (TH); Triptafen (GB); Triptafen M (GB)
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Amitriptyline increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane.
Perphenazine is a piperazine phenothiazine antipsychotic which blocks postsynaptic mesolimbic dopaminergic receptors in the brain; exhibits alpha-adrenergic blocking effect and depresses the release of hypothalamic and hypophyseal hormones.
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS — See individual agents
Amitriptyline and perphenazine
MEDICATION GUIDE — An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088622.pdf, must be dispensed with this medication for each new outpatient prescription and refill.
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
Antipsychotic Agent, Typical, Phenothiazine
DOSING: ADULTS — Depression and anxiety: Oral: 1 tablet 2-4 times/day
DOSING: ELDERLY — Refer to adult dosing.
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Avoid use in severe hepatic failure.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet:
2-10: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 10 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
2-25: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 25 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
4-10: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 10 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-25: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 25 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-50: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 50 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet:
Generics:
2-10: Amitriptyline 10 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
2-25: Amitriptyline 25 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
4-10: Amitriptyline 10 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-25: Amitriptyline 25 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-50: Amitriptyline 50 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Depression with psychotic features
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — See individual agents.
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline, perphenazine, or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other phenothiazines may exist); angle-closure glaucoma; bone marrow depression; severe liver or cardiac disease; pregnancy
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Dementia: See "Disease-related concerns" below. Suicidal thinking/behavior: See "Major psychiatric warnings" below.
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age; this combination is not FDA approved for use in children. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. This combination is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Altered cardiac conduction: May alter cardiac conduction; life-threatening arrhythmias have occurred with therapeutic doses of antipsychotics. Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. Relative to other neuroleptics, perphenazine has a low potency of cholinergic blockade and relative to other antidepressants amitriptyline has a high potential for cholinergic blockade. Blood dyscrasias: Check blood counts periodically and discontinue at first signs of blood dyscrasias; use is contraindicated in patients with bone marrow suppression. Esophageal dysmotility/aspiration: Antipsychotic use has been associated with esophageal dysmotility and aspiration; use with caution in patients at risk of pneumonia (ie, Alzheimer's disease). Extrapyramidal symptoms: May cause extrapyramidal symptoms, including pseudoparkinsonism, acute dystonic reactions, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia (risk of these reactions is moderate-high relative to other neuroleptics). Hyperprolactinemia: Perphenazine use is associated with increased prolactin levels; clinical significance of hyperprolactinemia in patients with breast cancer or other prolactin-dependent tumors is unknown. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): Use of perphenazine may be associated with NMS; monitor for mental status changes, fever, muscle rigidity, and/or autonomic instability. Ocular effects: Perphenazine may cause pigmentary retinopathy, and lenticular and corneal deposits, particularly with prolonged therapy. Orthostatic hypotension: Both agents may cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: Both agents may cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is high relative to other antidepressants. SIADH and hyponatremia: Has been associated with the development of SIADH and hyponatremia. Temperature regulation: Impaired core body temperature regulation may occur with perphenazine use; caution with strenuous exercise, heat exposure, dehydration, and concomitant medication possessing anticholinergic effects.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use both agents with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Dementia: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotics are at an increased risk of death compared to placebo. Most deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (eg, heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (eg, pneumonia) in nature. Perphenazine is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis. Diabetes: Use amitriptyline with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Glaucoma: Use with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma; condition may be exacerbated by cholinergic blockade. Hepatic impairment: Use both agents with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Myasthenia gravis: Use with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis; condition may be exacerbated by cholinergic blockade. Parkinson's disease: Use perphenazine with caution in patients with Parkinson's disease; they may be more sensitive to adverse effects. Renal impairment: Use both agents with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use both agents with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Antiemetic effects: Perphenazine may mask toxicity of other drugs or conditions (eg, intestinal obstruction, Reye's syndrome, brain tumor) due to antiemetic effects. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly; increased risk for developing tardive dyskinesia from perphenazine. Poor metabloizers: Use with caution in patients with reduced functional alleles of CYP2D6. Poor metabolizers may have higher plasma concentrations at usual doses, increasing risk for adverse reactions.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue several days prior to elective surgery. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS
Amitriptyline: Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
Perphenazine: Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2D6 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): May enhance the neurotoxic (central) effect of Antipsychotics. Severe extrapyramidal symptoms have occurred in some patients. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Antipsychotics may diminish the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Analgesics (Opioid): Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may enhance the hypotensive effect of Analgesics (Opioid). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antacids: May decrease the absorption of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antimalarial Agents: May increase the serum concentration of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anti-Parkinson's Agents (Dopamine Agonist): Antipsychotics (Typical) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson's Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Beta-Blockers: Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may enhance the hypotensive effect of Beta-Blockers. Beta-Blockers may decrease the metabolism of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may decrease the metabolism of Beta-Blockers. Exceptions: Atenolol; Levobunolol; Metipranolol; Nadolol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lithium formulations: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Antipsychotics. Lithium formulations may decrease the serum concentration of Antipsychotics. Specifically noted with chlorpromazine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Tetrabenazine: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Antipsychotics. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS — Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (due to increased sedation).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — D (show table)
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/contraindicated
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Perphenazine-Amitriptyline)
2-10 mg (60): $16.99
2-25 mg (30): $13.99
4-25 mg (60): $19.99
4-50 mg (60): $27.99
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Vital signs; lipid profile, fasting blood glucose/Hb A1c; BMI, weight; mental status, abnormal involuntary movement scale (AIMS), extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased)
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Etrafon®
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Mutabon A (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon D (AE, AR, BH, CN, CY, EG, ID, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, PY, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon F (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon M (AE, BH, CY, EG, ID, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon-A (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-D (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-F (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-M (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Neuragon-A (TH); Neuragon-B (TH); Polybon (TH); Triptafen (GB); Triptafen M (GB)
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Amitriptyline increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane.
Perphenazine is a piperazine phenothiazine antipsychotic which blocks postsynaptic mesolimbic dopaminergic receptors in the brain; exhibits alpha-adrenergic blocking effect and depresses the release of hypothalamic and hypophyseal hormones.
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS — See individual agents
PHARMACOLOGIC CATEGORY
Antidepressant, Tricyclic (Tertiary Amine)
Antipsychotic Agent, Typical, Phenothiazine
DOSING: ADULTS — Depression and anxiety: Oral: 1 tablet 2-4 times/day
DOSING: ELDERLY — Refer to adult dosing.
DOSING: HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT — Avoid use in severe hepatic failure.
DOSAGE FORMS — Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet:
2-10: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 10 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
2-25: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 25 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
4-10: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 10 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-25: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 25 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-50: Amitriptyline hydrochloride 50 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
DOSAGE FORMS: CONCISE
Tablet:
Generics:
2-10: Amitriptyline 10 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
2-25: Amitriptyline 25 mg and perphenazine 2 mg
4-10: Amitriptyline 10 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-25: Amitriptyline 25 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
4-50: Amitriptyline 50 mg and perphenazine 4 mg
GENERIC EQUIVALENT AVAILABLE — Yes
USE — Treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression
USE - UNLABELED / INVESTIGATIONAL — Depression with psychotic features
ADVERSE REACTIONS SIGNIFICANT — See individual agents.
CONTRAINDICATIONS — Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline, perphenazine, or any component of the formulation (cross-sensitivity with other phenothiazines may exist); angle-closure glaucoma; bone marrow depression; severe liver or cardiac disease; pregnancy
WARNINGS / PRECAUTIONS
Boxed warnings: Dementia: See "Disease-related concerns" below. Suicidal thinking/behavior: See "Major psychiatric warnings" below.
Major psychiatric warnings:
• [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults (18-24 years of age) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders; consider risk prior to prescribing. Short-term studies did not show an increased risk in patients >24 years of age and showed a decreased risk in patients ≥ 65 years. Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior, particularly during the initial 1-2 months of therapy or during periods of dosage adjustments (increases or decreases); the patient's family or caregiver should be instructed to closely observe the patient and communicate condition with healthcare provider. A medication guide concerning the use of antidepressants should be dispensed with each prescription. Amitriptyline is not FDA-approved for use in children <12 years of age; this combination is not FDA approved for use in children. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in major depression and may persist until remission occurs. Patients treated with antidepressants should be observed for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Worsening depression and severe abrupt suicidality that are not part of the presenting symptoms may require discontinuation or modification of drug therapy. Use caution in high-risk patients during initiation of therapy. Prescriptions should be written for the smallest quantity consistent with good patient care. The patient's family or caregiver should be alerted to monitor patients for the emergence of suicidality and associated behaviors such as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, akathisia, hypomania, and mania; patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider if any of these symptoms or worsening depression or psychosis occur. May worsen psychosis in some patients or precipitate a shift to mania or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder. Monotherapy in patients with bipolar disorder should be avoided. Patients presenting with depressive symptoms should be screened for bipolar disorder. This combination is not FDA approved for the treatment of bipolar depression.
Concerns related to adverse effects: Altered cardiac conduction: May alter cardiac conduction; life-threatening arrhythmias have occurred with therapeutic doses of antipsychotics. Anticholinergic effects: May cause anticholinergic effects (constipation, xerostomia, blurred vision, urinary retention); use with caution in patients with decreased gastrointestinal motility, paralytic ileus, urinary retention, BPH, xerostomia, or visual problems. Relative to other neuroleptics, perphenazine has a low potency of cholinergic blockade and relative to other antidepressants amitriptyline has a high potential for cholinergic blockade. Blood dyscrasias: Check blood counts periodically and discontinue at first signs of blood dyscrasias; use is contraindicated in patients with bone marrow suppression. Esophageal dysmotility/aspiration: Antipsychotic use has been associated with esophageal dysmotility and aspiration; use with caution in patients at risk of pneumonia (ie, Alzheimer's disease). Extrapyramidal symptoms: May cause extrapyramidal symptoms, including pseudoparkinsonism, acute dystonic reactions, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia (risk of these reactions is moderate-high relative to other neuroleptics). Hyperprolactinemia: Perphenazine use is associated with increased prolactin levels; clinical significance of hyperprolactinemia in patients with breast cancer or other prolactin-dependent tumors is unknown. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): Use of perphenazine may be associated with NMS; monitor for mental status changes, fever, muscle rigidity, and/or autonomic instability. Ocular effects: Perphenazine may cause pigmentary retinopathy, and lenticular and corneal deposits, particularly with prolonged therapy. Orthostatic hypotension: Both agents may cause orthostatic hypotension (risk is very high relative to other antidepressants); use with caution in patients at risk of this effect or in those who would not tolerate transient hypotensive episodes (cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, hypovolemia, or concurrent medication use which may predispose to hypotension/bradycardia). Sedation: Both agents may cause sedation, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving). The degree of sedation is high relative to other antidepressants. SIADH and hyponatremia: Has been associated with the development of SIADH and hyponatremia. Temperature regulation: Impaired core body temperature regulation may occur with perphenazine use; caution with strenuous exercise, heat exposure, dehydration, and concomitant medication possessing anticholinergic effects.
Disease-related concerns: Cardiovascular disease: Use both agents with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease (including previous MI, stroke, tachycardia, or conduction abnormalities); the risk of conduction abnormalities with this agent is high relative to other antidepressants. Dementia: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotics are at an increased risk of death compared to placebo. Most deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (eg, heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (eg, pneumonia) in nature. Perphenazine is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis. Diabetes: Use amitriptyline with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose regulation. Glaucoma: Use with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma; condition may be exacerbated by cholinergic blockade. Hepatic impairment: Use both agents with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Myasthenia gravis: Use with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis; condition may be exacerbated by cholinergic blockade. Parkinson's disease: Use perphenazine with caution in patients with Parkinson's disease; they may be more sensitive to adverse effects. Renal impairment: Use both agents with caution in patients with renal impairment. Seizure disorder: Use both agents with caution in patients at risk of seizures, including those with a history of seizures, head trauma, brain damage, alcoholism, or concurrent therapy with medications which may lower seizure threshold. Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism or those receiving thyroid supplementation.
Concurrent drug therapy issues: Antiemetic effects: Perphenazine may mask toxicity of other drugs or conditions (eg, intestinal obstruction, Reye's syndrome, brain tumor) due to antiemetic effects. Sedatives: Effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations: Elderly: Use with caution in the elderly; increased risk for developing tardive dyskinesia from perphenazine. Poor metabloizers: Use with caution in patients with reduced functional alleles of CYP2D6. Poor metabolizers may have higher plasma concentrations at usual doses, increasing risk for adverse reactions.
Other warnings/precautions: Discontinuation of therapy: Recommended to discontinue several days prior to elective surgery. Therapy should not be abruptly discontinued in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. Electroconvulsive therapy: May increase the risks associated with electroconvulsive therapy; consider discontinuing, when possible, prior to ECT treatment.
METABOLISM / TRANSPORT EFFECTS
Amitriptyline: Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2B6 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2C9 (weak), 2C19 (weak), 2D6 (weak), 2E1 (weak)
Perphenazine: Substrate of CYP1A2 (minor), 2C9 (minor), 2C19 (minor), 2D6 (major), 3A4 (minor); Inhibits CYP1A2 (weak), 2D6 (weak)
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors (Central): May enhance the neurotoxic (central) effect of Antipsychotics. Severe extrapyramidal symptoms have occurred in some patients. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alfuzosin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha-/Beta-Agonists (Direct-Acting). Exceptions: Dipivefrin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha1-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the vasopressor effect of Alpha1-Agonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Alpha2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the antihypertensive effect of Alpha2-Agonists. Exceptions: Apraclonidine; Brimonidine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Altretamine: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Tricyclic Antidepressants may also potentiate the cardiovascular effects of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: Antipsychotics may diminish the stimulatory effect of Amphetamines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Analgesics (Opioid): Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may enhance the hypotensive effect of Analgesics (Opioid). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antacids: May decrease the absorption of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Anticholinergics. Exceptions: Paliperidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antimalarial Agents: May increase the serum concentration of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anti-Parkinson's Agents (Dopamine Agonist): Antipsychotics (Typical) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson's Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Artemether: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aspirin: Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of Aspirin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Barbiturates: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Beta2-Agonists: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Beta2-Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Beta-Blockers: Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may enhance the hypotensive effect of Beta-Blockers. Beta-Blockers may decrease the metabolism of Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines). Antipsychotic Agents (Phenothiazines) may decrease the metabolism of Beta-Blockers. Exceptions: Atenolol; Levobunolol; Metipranolol; Nadolol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BuPROPion: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cinacalcet: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ciprofloxacin: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cisapride: Amitriptyline may enhance the arrhythmogenic effect of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Dronedarone. Risk X: Avoid combination
DULoxetine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Gadobutrol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iobenguane I 123: Tricyclic Antidepressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane I 123. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lithium: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lithium formulations: May enhance the neurotoxic effect of Antipsychotics. Lithium formulations may decrease the serum concentration of Antipsychotics. Specifically noted with chlorpromazine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lumefantrine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
MAO Inhibitors: May enhance the orthostatic effect of Orthostasis Producing Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Antidepressants (Tricyclic, Tertiary Amine) may enhance the antiplatelet effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimozide: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Pramlintide: May enhance the anticholinergic effect of Anticholinergics. These effects are specific to the GI tract. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Propoxyphene: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents. Their effects can be additive, causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNIDine. QuiNIDine may decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
QuiNINE: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QuiNINE. QuiNINE may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin Modulators: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other Serotonin Modulators. The development of serotonin syndrome may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sibutramine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonin Modulators. This may cause serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
St Johns Wort: May increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. The risk of serotonin syndrome may theoretically be increased. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sulfonylureas: Cyclic Antidepressants may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Sulfonylureas. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Terbinafine: May decrease the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tetrabenazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Tetrabenazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Tetrabenazine: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Antipsychotics. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Thioridazine: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
TraMADol: Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Valproic Acid: May increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tricyclic Antidepressants may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Yohimbine: Tricyclic Antidepressants may increase the serum concentration of Yohimbine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ziprasidone: QTc-Prolonging Agents may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of Ziprasidone. The risk of a severe arrhythmia may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
ETHANOL / NUTRITION / HERB INTERACTIONS — Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (due to increased sedation).
PREGNANCY RISK FACTOR — D (show table)
LACTATION — Enters breast milk/contraindicated
PRICING — (data from drugstore.com)
Tablets (Perphenazine-Amitriptyline)
2-10 mg (60): $16.99
2-25 mg (30): $13.99
4-25 mg (60): $19.99
4-50 mg (60): $27.99
MONITORING PARAMETERS — Vital signs; lipid profile, fasting blood glucose/Hb A1c; BMI, weight; mental status, abnormal involuntary movement scale (AIMS), extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), suicidal ideation (especially at the beginning of therapy or when doses are increased or decreased)
CANADIAN BRAND NAMES — Etrafon®
INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES — Mutabon A (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon D (AE, AR, BH, CN, CY, EG, ID, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, PY, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon F (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon M (AE, BH, CY, EG, ID, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE); Mutabon-A (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-D (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-F (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Mutabon-M (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, NL, PR, SR, TT); Neuragon-A (TH); Neuragon-B (TH); Polybon (TH); Triptafen (GB); Triptafen M (GB)
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Amitriptyline increases the synaptic concentration of serotonin and/or norepinephrine in the central nervous system by inhibition of their reuptake by the presynaptic neuronal membrane.
Perphenazine is a piperazine phenothiazine antipsychotic which blocks postsynaptic mesolimbic dopaminergic receptors in the brain; exhibits alpha-adrenergic blocking effect and depresses the release of hypothalamic and hypophyseal hormones.
PHARMACODYNAMICS / KINETICS — See individual agents
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