Do not give amitriptyline to children or anyone age 18 or under unless your GP advises it.
Check with a GP or pharmacist before starting to take amitriptyline if you:
- already have a medical condition, including any problems with your heart or liver
- have epilepsy - amitriptyline can increase seizures or fits
- are taking any other medicines or have taken any in the last 14 days
- have had an allergic reaction to medicine in the past
- have thoughts about harming yourself or ending your life
- are trying to get pregnant, already pregnant or breastfeeding
- have an eye condition called glaucoma - amitriptyline can increase the pressure in your eye
- have ever taken any medicines for depression - some antidepressants can affect the way amitriptyline works
If you're pregnant
Talk to your GP before taking amitriptyline if you:
- are pregnant
- think you may be pregnant
- are trying to get pregnant
Amitriptyline is not recommended during pregnancy unless your doctor thinks its benefits outweigh the risks.
It has been linked with a small risk of problems for your baby if you take it in early or late pregnancy.
If you're breastfeeding
Talk to your GP before taking amitriptyline if you are breastfeeding.
Amitriptyline passes into breast milk. It's been linked with side effects like sleepiness in breastfed babies.
It's important not to share a bed with your baby while you're taking amitriptyline.
Your GP may prescribe other painkillers you can take instead.
If you have diabetes
Amitriptyline may change your blood sugar level if you have diabetes.
Monitor your blood sugar more often for the first few weeks of taking amitriptyline. Talk to your GP about your results. They may change your diabetes treatment if needed.
Talk to your GP if you’re worried about your blood sugar levels.