Amitriptyline

Tricyclic antidepressant (low dose for pain)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (low dose for pain) found in 3 medicines sold in India, such as Tryptomer 10, Tryptomer 25, Tryptomer 75. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

In low doses, eases nerve pain, prevents migraine and helps sleep.

How it works

A tricyclic antidepressant now mostly used at low doses for nerve pain, migraine and tension headache prevention, and IBS.

How to take it

Usually 10 to 25 mg in the evening, 2 hours before bed to reduce morning grogginess.

Common side effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness
  • Constipation
  • Weight gain
  • Dizziness on standing

Get medical help straight away if

  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Confusion
  • Thoughts of self-harm

Be careful

Causes drowsiness and dry mouth; dangerous in overdose.

Other medicines and interactions

Dangerous in overdose; keep away from children. More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives. Serotonin syndrome risk with tramadol, SSRIs and triptans; avoid with MAOIs.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your doctor; some tricyclics are used in pregnancy and breastfeeding at low doses when needed.

Brands of Amitriptyline (3)

Common questions

What is Amitriptyline used for?

In low doses, eases nerve pain, prevents migraine and helps sleep.

How does Amitriptyline work?

A tricyclic antidepressant now mostly used at low doses for nerve pain, migraine and tension headache prevention, and IBS.

How should I take Amitriptyline?

Usually 10 to 25 mg in the evening, 2 hours before bed to reduce morning grogginess.

What are the side effects of Amitriptyline?

Common: Dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, weight gain, dizziness on standing. Get help straight away for: Fast or irregular heartbeat, difficulty passing urine, confusion, thoughts of self-harm.

Does Amitriptyline interact with other medicines?

Dangerous in overdose; keep away from children. More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives. Serotonin syndrome risk with tramadol, SSRIs and triptans; avoid with MAOIs.

Is Amitriptyline safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor; some tricyclics are used in pregnancy and breastfeeding at low doses when needed.

Does Amitriptyline need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Amitriptyline?

Tryptomer 10, Tryptomer 25, Tryptomer 75.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.