Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Elavil as follows:
- Elavil intake can result in pupillary dilation and obstruction to the flow of aqueous humor in the eye, and consequent increase in intraocular pressure, thus leading to glaucoma. Individuals can present with eye pain, headache, and blurred vision with haloes around light. Observe compliance with any periodical vision exams recommended. Report any eye pain and changes with vision, while taking Elavil, to your physician immediately, so that, an alternative plan of care could be considered.
- Elavil intake has the potential to increase the likelihood of seizures. Elavil must be very cautiously administered in individuals with seizure history, compliance with recommended anti-seizure therapy observed, and response closely monitored. Elavil can also induce a life-threatening reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Individuals taking Elavil can present with high fever, episodes of confusion, muscle rigidity, elevated blood pressure, and rapid heart rate. Severe cases can present with muscle breakdown, elevated potassium levels in the blood due to muscle destruction, life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias due to the elevated blood potassium, and seizures. Any of these findings, while taking Elavil, should be immediately reported to the physician, for necessary changes to be considered. Also, discuss with your physician regarding your history of seizures, if any, if you are newly started on Elavil. If you are newly diagnosed with seizure complaint, discuss with your physician regarding your safety with continuing on Elavil, if you have been using Elavil for long.
- Notify your doctor of any unresolved and worsening anxiety and depressive symptoms or continuing unpleasant side-effects, so that, your dosage on the medication could be revised.
