What is Amitriptyline?

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant. It's used to treat certain behavioral problems, such as separation anxiety, fear of noises, and anxiety in dogs. For cats it is used to treat urinating out of the litter box, spraying, and anxiety. Amitriptyline requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

Note: Amitriptyline Compounded is also available.

For:

Cats and Dogs

Benefits:

• Treats behavioral issues in dogs, such as separation anxiety
• Remedies feline behavioral problems, like urinating outside the litter box
• Reduces the frequency of vet visits

How does Amitriptyline work?

Amitriptyline affects chemicals in the brain that become unbalanced, leading to behavioral problems in your pet.

Cautions:

Side effects of Amitriptyline may include drowsiness, dizziness, loss of appetite, and urinary retention, and this product may interact with other products your pet is taking.

Brand Name:

Elavil (Merck)

Generic Name:

Amitriptyline (am-e-trip'-ta-lean)

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Amitriptyline to my pet?

Do not give this medication if your pet has taken or used a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as selegiline, Mitaban Dip or Preventic Collar within the last 14 days. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver or kidney disease; asthma; thyroid disease; diabetes; stomach or intestinal problems; high blood pressure or heart disease; difficulty urinating, or glaucoma. Tell your veterinarian if the pet is pregnant or lactating.

What is the most important information I should know about Amitriptyline?

Amitriptyline is a prescription medication not FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use this medication in dogs and cats. Amitriptyline is available as 10mg, 25mg, 50mg and 75mg tablets. The usual initial dose for dogs is 0.5-2mg per pound every 8-12 hours. The usual dose in cats is 5-10mg per cat once a day, at night. This medication may not help symptoms right away. It may take a number of days before symptoms begin to lessen. Contact your veterinarian if symptoms get worse or if new symptoms develop while the pet is on this medication. Amitriptyline may cause drowsiness or dizziness.

How should Amitriptyline be given?

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Allow pet to drink plenty of water. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Do not stop giving Amitriptyline suddenly. This could cause symptoms such as nausea, headache and malaise. Store Amitriptyline at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Amitriptyline?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What should I avoid while giving Amitriptyline to my pet?

Amitriptyline may cause dizziness or drowsiness.

What are the possible side effects of Amitriptyline?

If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Amitriptyline and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue or face, or hives); seizures; a fast or irregular heartbeat; high blood pressure; difficulty urinating; panting, muscle stiffness or severe muscle weakness. Other less serious side effects may occur. Continue giving Amitriptyline and talk to your veterinarian if your pet has drowsiness or dizziness; dry mouth and eyes; constipation; panting; mild agitation, weakness or headache; nausea or loss of weight or appetite. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What other drugs will affect Amitriptyline?

Do not give this medication if your pet has taken or used a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as selegiline, Mitaban Dip or Preventic Collar within the last 14 days. Amitriptyline may increase the effects of other drugs that may cause drowsiness, including other antidepressants, antihistamines, sedatives, pain relievers, anxiety medications, and muscle relaxants. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Amitriptyline. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines including herbal products.