Amitriptyline is a drug that is classified within antidepressant medications. Specifically, it is part of the group of tricyclic antidepressants. They are named for their chemical structure that includes a chain of three rings.
However, although many people are unaware of it, the truth is that this substance can be used for many other purposes, in addition to depression. For example, to treat insomnia or migraine. In this article we explain everything you need to know about amitriptyline and when it is used.
What is amitriptyline? How does it work?
As we have noted, amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant medication. It is a substance that acts at the brain level causing certain neurotransmitters to increase their concentration in the nerve terminals. Specifically, it increases the availability of norepinephrine and serotonin.
Both norepinephrine and serotonin have an essential function on the nervous system. Your concentration is related to motivation, mood, feelings of stress, and anxiety.
Serotonin, as explained by the Association of Occupational Health and Prevention Specialists, is known as the happiness particle . However, in addition to being related to the feeling of well-being, it also intervenes in intestinal function.
Amitriptyline inhibits the reuptake of both neurotransmitters. In this way, by getting them to be in a higher concentration, their action at the brain and spinal cord is enhanced.
This medicine is usually given by mouth. It is rapidly absorbed, which allows its level in the blood to be maximum between 2 and 12 hours after having ingested it. It is mainly eliminated in the urine.
For whatever purpose amitriptyline is used, treatment should start at low doses. In the same way, when it comes to removing it, it should be done gradually. If it is stopped abruptly, side effects usually appear.
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