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Compare Elavil vs. Lidoderm

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Amitriptyline (Elavil) and lidocaine viscous (Xylocaine) are both medications that can help with pain, but they work in different ways and are used for different conditions. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) FDA-approved to treat depression, but is often used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention. It is taken orally, usually once a day. Common side effects include sleepiness, weight gain, and dizziness. It can interact with many other medications, such as sedatives and antihistamines. On the other hand, lidocaine viscous is a topical, local anesthetic used to numb painful areas in the mouth and throat, as well as to prevent gagging during dental procedures. Lidocaine viscous can cause side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, and using too much can lead to serious issues like seizures and heart problems. Unlike amitriptyline, lidocaine viscous is not used for depression or nerve pain and does not have the same drug interactions. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic.

  • Amitriptyline
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
  • Amitriptyline
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)

  • Summary of Elavil vs. Lidoderm

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Amitriptyline is FDA approved to treat depression. But it isn't as commonly used today as other antidepressants because it can cause a lot of side effects, such as sleepiness and weight gain. In addition, amitriptyline has many interactions with other medications, including other antidepressants, sedatives, and antihistamines. But despite the side effects and interactions, amitriptyline is often used off label for nerve pain due to diabetes and migraine prevention. While its brand name Elavil is no longer available, amitriptyline is available as a generic medication.

    Summary for Local anesthetic
    Prescription only

    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.

  • Indications of Elavil vs. Lidoderm

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)

  • Pros and Cons of Elavil vs. Lidoderm

    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Available in many different strengths
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic form
    •Can take with or without food
    Cons
    •Has many unpleasant side effects compared to other antidepressants
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it after long-term use
    •Not the best choice for people with heart problems, glaucoma, or seizures or people age 65 years and older
    Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
    Pros
    •Works directly on the skin
    •Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
    •Can cut patches to fit the area of pain
    Cons
    •Commonly causes skin irritation
    •Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch
    •Might interact with many medications

  • Common Side Effects of Elavil vs. Lidoderm

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Weakness
    •Fatigue
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Weight gain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blisters
    •Bruising
    •Burning sensation
    •Changes in skin color
    •Rash or redness
    •Swelling
    •Peeling or flaking skin
    •Itching
    •Small bumps or spots
    •Tiny red or purple dots under the skin
    •Tingling or numbness in the area

  • Warnings of Elavil vs. Lidoderm

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
    •Seizures
    •Glaucoma
    •Higher risk of falls
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Absorbing too much medication
    •Accidental poisoning in children or pets

  • Prices with our coupons for Elavil vs. Lidoderm

    Learn more about Amitriptyline
    Learn more about Lidocaine 5% patch

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