amitriptyline with chlordiazepoxide-oral (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: glaucoma, prostate problems, decreased urine output, thyroid disease, breathing problems, seizure problems, alcohol use, heart disease, mental/emotional problems, liver or kidney disease, drug allergies. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving). This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear a sunscreen and protective clothing. Limit alcohol while taking this to avoid excessive drowsiness. Though uncommon, depression itself can lead to thoughts or attempts of suicide. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any suicidal thoughts, or other mental/mood changes. Keep all medical appointments so your doctor can monitor your progress closely. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly, because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug (e.g., confusion may occur or worsen). This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk and may have an effect on the nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the drugs you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially if you take other medicines that make you sleepy such as: narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), cimetidine, anti-thyroid medicine, SSRI antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, fluvoxamine), St John's wort. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, confusion, fast heartbeat, lightheadedness, and dilated pupils.
NOTES: Taking this medication at bedtime may help minimize side effects. Talk to your doctor about this.
MISSED DOSE: Do not double dose if missed. Skip missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Depression - Read about depression causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and types, including manic depression (bipolar disorder), postpartum depression and clinical depression.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows