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Elavil vs. Pamelor

Amitriptyline is also known by the old brand name Elavil. It's a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that's approved to treat depression. But it's not used as often today for depression because it can cause a lot of side effects, like sleepiness and weight gain. It also has many drug interactions. Even so, amitriptyline is often used off label for other reasons, like nerve pain from diabetes and to help prevent migraines. Amitriptyline comes as a generic tablet that you take by mouth. The brand name Elavil is no longer available.

• Depression

• Sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Weight gain

• Worsening depression or suicidal thoughts and behavior
• Serotonin syndrome
• Not for use alone for bipolar disorder
• Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
• Low sodium levels
• Risk of seizure
• Angle-closure glaucoma in certain people

Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It's approved to treat depression in adults. This medication is also often prescribed off-label to treat certain types of nerve pain. Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is available as a capsule and liquid that are taken by mouth. Side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, and possible weight gain. This medication is available under the brand name Pamelor and as a generic.

• Depression

• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach upset
• Loss of appetite
• Numbness in the hands or feet
• Rash
• Itching
• Changes in blood pressure

• Worsening depression and risk for suicidal thoughts and unusual behavior
• Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
• Glaucoma