Key takeaways
Amitriptyline (formerly branded as Elavil) and amoxapine (formerly branded as asendin) are both tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) used to treat depression, but they have some key differences. Amitriptyline, available as a generic, is also used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention. It can cause side effects like sleepiness and weight gain, and it interacts with many other medications. Amoxapine, also available as a generic, is used for depression that comes with anxiety or agitation. It might work faster than amitriptyline but has a higher risk of side effects, including drowsiness and dry mouth. Unlike amitriptyline, amoxapine can cause a movement condition called tardive dyskinesia and a rare but serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Both medications can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in people under 24.
