Amitriptyline Medication Abuse & Addiction Risks

Amitriptyline is a medication that can help many people who are suffering from depression and other mental health problems to feel better again.

Unfortunately, it is also among the most commonly abused antidepressants, and an addiction to amitriptyline can have life-threatening consequences. It can also halt a person’s recovery for treating their mental illness.

Read on to learn more about the signs of amitriptyline abuse and the help that is available for treating an addiction to amitriptyline.

Amitriptyline is an antidepressant medication that is prescribed to treat depression and which is known as a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It works mainly by raising the amounts of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain and central nervous system.

While amitriptyline is not considered as addictive as other prescription drugs like opioids or stimulants, it does have some addictive properties.

People may become addicted to amitriptyline if:

• They enjoy the euphoria and sedation that it causes in high doses
• They are taking it at higher doses than prescribed
• They are taking it more frequently than prescribed
• They have built up a physical tolerance and physical dependence to the drug

The brand name for amitriptyline is Elavil, though it was discontinued by the FDA in 2000. Currently, amitriptyline is only available from prescribing doctors in its generic forms.

Amitriptyline is also sometimes used off-label to treat anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and nerve pain. It can also be used for treating mood disorders, but is not recommended for bipolar disorder.

Amitriptyline works by raising the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain. This causes a person’s mood to elevate, and also reduces feelings of pain.

Over time, the brain’s natural ability to produce these neurotransmitters is disrupted, especially if they are taking it more often or in higher doses than prescribed.

When this happens, the person may take even more of the drug in an attempt to feel the same effects they once felt at lower doses. This can lead to a physical dependence.

Once physical dependence is reached, addiction often closely follows as the person may no longer be able to function normally without the drug.

Anyone can be at risk for abusing amitriptyline, but especially those that have easy access to it. This can include people who have a family member with a prescription or people who know where to buy it illegally.

People who are at the highest risk of abusing amitriptyline, however, are those who have a prescription for it.

For this reason, the majority of people at risk of abusing amitriptyline are those who have a depressive disorder of some form. People with chronic pain or fibromyalgia may also be at a heightened risk.

If you or someone you love is being prescribed amitriptyline for depression, it can be helpful to know the signs to look out for in case of misuse or abuse.

Behavioral signs and symptoms of amitriptyline abuse include:

• Taking higher doses than prescribed or more frequently than prescribed
• Noticeable changes in mood and energy levels
• Frequently appearing drowsy or sedated
• Withdrawing socially from friends and family
• Doctor shopping, or visiting multiple doctors to obtain more prescriptions
• Neglecting responsibilities such as school or work

Even when taken as prescribed, amitriptyline can cause constipation, dry mouth, vomiting, and weight gain.

When taken in higher doses than prescribed and for longer periods of time, the potential for serious side effects and complications can worsen.

Side effects and complications of amitriptyline abuse:

• Cerebral edema
• Permanent central nervous system damage
• Cardiac issues, including potentially fatal arrhythmias
• Increased risk of overdose
• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts
• Worsening of depression or anxiety symptoms
• Addiction and dependence

As someone continues to abuse amitriptyline, the risk of an overdose grows. Furthermore, an overdose on amitriptyline can be life-threatening and almost always requires hospitalization.

The risk of overdose on amitriptyline increases with simultaneous substance use, such as drinking alcohol or taking other drugs.

Symptoms of an amitriptyline overdose include:

• Rapid heart rate
• Low blood pressure
• Extreme drowsiness
• Confusion and agitation
• Hallucinations
• Seizures
• Slowed breathing

Immediate medical attention is required with an amitriptyline overdose. Life-saving measures provided may then include naloxone, epinephrine, a shock to the heart, and more.

Treating amitriptyline abuse can be complex, because those abusing it are often people with depression who still need help.

People who are in recovery for amitriptyline abuse have a couple of different options, the first of which would be to taper off the medication gradually before stopping it completely.

Alternatively, someone may want to try a different medication in order to continue treating their mental health while still ending their use of amitriptyline.

Treating a person for medication abuse and a co-occurring mental health issue is best done through dual diagnosis treatment.

Treatment options for medication abuse and mental health issues include:

• Detox: detoxification programs can help people to go through withdrawal safely and comfortably while under the supervision of medical professionals.
• Inpatient rehab: a type of treatment center that allows people to stay onsite 24/7 while receiving treatment for their addiction and mental health.
• Outpatient programs: allow people to access therapy and other treatments while still maintaining their daily responsibilities.

Therapy is crucial during treatment for amitriptyline abuse as it can address both the addiction and other types of mental health issues the person is experiencing.

Therapy options for Amitriptyline abuse and mental health recovery include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): a type of therapy that explores a person’s triggers and helps them to replace negative thought patterns and behaviors with ones that are more positive and appropriate.
• Individual therapy: talk therapy where people can discuss current challenges in their lives as well as issues they want to work on.
• Group therapy: allows people to share their experiences with each other and learn coping mechanisms and skills from a common therapist/teacher.
• Family therapy: important for people and their families to understand one another better and offer better support at home.

Continuing care is important for anyone overcoming any type of substance abuse, but is especially important in people experiencing mental health issues.

Continuing care options for Amitriptyline abuse and mental health recovery include:

• Outpatient care: people can continue to attend therapy and other services at their convenience.
• Telehealth options: for people who cannot attend treatment in person, virtual therapy is often available.
• Medication management: for people who want to safely keep track of their doses and any side effects they are experiencing.

There are few things in life more challenging than struggling with a mental health condition and an addiction at the same time.

At PsyWeb, we are dedicated to helping you or your loved one to get back on your feet and enjoy life again if you are living with an Elavil addiction.

To learn about how we can connect you to help for medication abuse and mental health conditions, contact us at our PsyWeb helpline today.