Tricyclic antidepressant
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Amitriptyline is an antidepressant medicine that works by increasing certain natural chemicals (serotonin and noradrenaline) in the brain that help improve mood, relieve pain, and promote better sleep.
Inhibits reuptake of noradrenaline and serotonin at neuronal synapses, increasing their synaptic concentrations and enhancing monoaminergic neurotransmission. Also possesses antimuscarinic and sedating properties that contribute to its therapeutic effects in depression, neuropathic pain, and sleep disturbances.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, skip it and take the next one at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed one. If you take it at bedtime and forget, do not take it in the morning as it will make you very drowsy during the day.
This is a prescription medicine. Do not buy it from roadside vendors or use someone else's prescription, as the wrong dose can affect your heart. Do not stop taking it suddenly even if you feel better, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms like nausea, headache, and mood changes. It makes you very drowsy, so avoid driving okada, keke, or cars until you know how it affects you.
Do not drink alcohol while taking amitriptyline, as it makes the drowsiness much worse and can be dangerous. Avoid taking it with tramadol as this can cause seizures. Do not combine with MAO inhibitor antidepressants (like selegiline) as this can cause a life-threatening reaction.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Amitriptyline with your other drugs?
Amitriptyline is not safe during pregnancy, especially in the first three months, and it passes into breast milk. Do not use it while pregnant or breastfeeding unless your doctor says the benefit clearly outweighs the risk.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be hot, so avoid leaving it on window sills or in cars. Keep it in the original container and far away from children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.