Amitriptyline Tablets

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used for the treatment of anxiety and behavior disorders in small animals.

Medications can play a significant role in comprehensive behavior modification therapy. Please follow your pet’s individual treatment plan, which may include a combination of medications and behavioral modification strategies, as recommended by your veterinarian or animal behaviorist.

*Please note: this is a generic medication. Product packaging and appearance, including size, color, and shape, may differ from the description or images provided and are subject to manufacturer availability.

Dogs and Cats

Amitriptyline hydrochloride

Elavil

Tricyclic antidepressant

This product may be available in multiple strengths and/or sizes; please select the appropriate option for your pet as recommended by your veterinarian.

For current availability, please refer to the product selection above.

Amitriptyline should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. The full benefit of this medication may not be observed until several weeks after starting.

Do not discontinue this medication abruptly. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes or discontinuing the prescribed dosing schedule.

Amitriptyline tablets should be given with food. Try to give the medication at about the same time each day, and ensure your pet always has access to fresh, clean water while taking this medication.

Administer the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature (68 to 77°F, excursions permitted between 59 and 86°F). Keep in a tight, light-resistant container and out of the reach of children and pets. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

The most commonly reported side effects of this medication include (but may not be limited to): sedation/drowsiness, dry mouth, increased thirst, constipation, and urinary retention.

In rare cases, more serious side effects including seizures, overexcitement or stimulation, and fainting/collapse have been reported.

Your veterinarian may advise a lower initial dose and gradually increase over time to help find an appropriate dosage and avoid these effects.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice your pet has a seizure, abnormal bruising or bleeding, muscle tremors, fever, and/or collapse.

Notify your veterinarian if your pet experiences any of the effects described above, or if you notice any other side effects that are persistent or troublesome.

If you notice anything unusual, please consult your veterinarian.

Do NOT discontinue this medication abruptly. Please consult your veterinarian before making any changes to the prescribed dosing schedule.

This medication is NOT compatible with flea and tick collars that contain the active ingredient amitraz. If your pet is currently using one of these collars, consult your veterinarian before starting this medication.

Use with caution in geriatric animals and those with a history of epilepsy/seizures; liver, kidney, thyroid, or heart disorders; glaucoma or dry eye syndrome; diabetes; or adrenal tumors. This medication can worsen constipation and urinary difficulty/retention.

Safe use of this medication has not been established in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals.

Do not administer to animals with a known history or suspected allergy/hypersensitivity to any tricyclic antidepressant, including this medication or any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform Vetsource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies.

If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, discontinue therapy and call your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary attention. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to): swollen lips, tongue, face, or airways, difficulty breathing, agitation, profuse salivation, and widespread hives or itching.

The following drugs* may have potential interactions with this medication: acepromazine, amitraz, antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine), azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), beta blockers (e.g., atenolol, sotalol), blood pressure medications (e.g., amlodipine, enalapril, telmisartan), CNS depressant drugs (e.g., dexmedetomidine, gabapentin, opioids, trazodone), estriol, levothyroxine, methocarbamol, metoclopramide, mirtazapine, ondansetron, phenobarbital, phenylpropanolamine (Proin), potassium supplements, selegiline, SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), and tramadol.

*NOTE: this may not be a comprehensive list. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

Please ensure your veterinarian is aware of all medications and supplements that your pet is currently receiving. Your veterinarian may prescribe multiple medications, even if a potential drug interaction may occur. In these instances, your veterinarian may adjust the dosages or monitor your pet more closely.

If you are concerned that your pet has experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, please contact Vetsource Pet Owner Care at 877-738-4443.