Elavil

Elavil (pronounced: eh-LAH-vil), also known as Amitriptyline, is a medication primarily used to treat a number of mental illnesses. These include major depressive disorder and anxiety disorder, and less commonly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and bipolar disorder. Other uses include prevention of migraines, treatment of neuropathic pain such as fibromyalgia and postherpetic neuralgia, and less commonly insomnia.

Etymology

The name "Elavil" is a brand name for the generic drug Amitriptyline. The term "Amitriptyline" is derived from its chemical structure, which is composed of three rings of atoms.

Pharmacology

Elavil is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) with sedative effects. Its mechanism of action is not entirely clear but believed to be related to its ability to increase the concentrations of serotonin and norepinephrine, and inhibit the action of acetylcholine.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Elavil include blurred vision, dry mouth, weight gain, constipation, and dizziness. Serious side effects may include an increased risk of suicide in those under the age of 25, serotonin syndrome, QT interval prolongation, and a decreased white blood cell count.

Related Terms

• Tricyclic antidepressant
• Serotonin
• Norepinephrine
• Acetylcholine
• Serotonin syndrome
• QT interval
• Neuropathic pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Postherpetic neuralgia
• Insomnia

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Elavil
• Wikipedia's article - Elavil

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