Amitriptyline
Definition
Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant commonly used to treat depression and certain types of neuropathic pain. It works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain to enhance mood and alleviate pain.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Amitriptyline can affect appetite and weight, making nutritional monitoring important for patients on this medication.
- It may cause dry mouth, which can influence dietary intake and hydration status.
- Patients taking amitriptyline should avoid alcohol as it can exacerbate side effects like drowsiness and dizziness.
- Amitriptyline is often prescribed at lower doses for neuropathic pain management compared to its dosage for depression.
- The medication may interact with certain foods and supplements, such as those containing St. John's Wort or grapefruit juice, which can alter its effectiveness.
Review Questions
- How does amitriptyline influence nutritional needs related to appetite and weight?
- Why should patients on amitriptyline avoid alcohol?
- What are some potential dietary interactions that nurses should monitor in patients taking amitriptyline?
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Related terms
Neuropathic Pain: Pain caused by damage or disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system.
Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA): A class of medications used primarily as antidepressants but also for other conditions like chronic pain.
Neurotransmitter: Chemical substances that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another in the brain.
