Key takeaways
Amitriptyline (formerly branded as Elavil) and carbamazepine (Tegretol, Equetro) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different conditions and belong to different drug classes. Amitriptyline, available as a generic, is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used to treat depression, though it is also used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention. It works by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Common side effects include sleepiness, weight gain, and dizziness. On the other hand, carbamazepine, also available in generic form, is an antiepileptic medication used to treat various types of seizures, trigeminal neuralgia (a type of facial nerve pain), and bipolar I disorder (Equetro brand only). It works by blocking sodium channels in the brain. Common side effects of carbamazepine include dizziness, sleepiness, and stomach upset. Unlike amitriptyline, carbamazepine requires routine blood tests to monitor its effects on your body. Additionally, carbamazepine can interfere with hormonal birth control, making them less effective. Both medications can cause serious side effects, including suicidal thoughts, but carbamazepine also carries risks of severe skin reactions and low blood cell counts.
