Non-Opioid Pain Medicines
Amitriptyline
(Elavil®) tablets
Amitriptyline (Elavil ®) is a medicine prescribed by doctors that is used for many different conditions and can be used to help with nerve pain from cancer.
How do I take this medicine?
Take with a glass of water or other liquid. You can take this medicine with or without food. If you are taking this once a day, it is best to take it at bedtime because it causes sleepiness.
Continue taking this medicine, even if your pain is under control. Medicines like amitriptyline should be taken every day, on a schedule. Do not stop taking this medicine, unless your care team tells you to do so.
What are the side effects?
The most common side effects of amitriptyline are dizziness, sleepiness, dry mouth, and weight gain.
Rarely this medicine can cause an abnormal heart rhythm, blurry vision, low blood pressure, or stomach upset. While side effects can be tough, there are ways to manage them. Talk to your care team if any of these side effects are interfering with your life.
