Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Amitriptyline as follows:
- Amitriptyline can interact with many antibacterial and antifungal antibiotics, antiarrhythmic medications, antidepressants, and antipsychotic medications, resulting in development or aggravation of underlying cardiac arrhythmias, leading to debility and sudden cardiac death. Avoid taking amitriptyline along with medications belonging to the above-mentioned groups, to prevent any dangerous arrhythmias from developing.
- Amitriptyline is mainly metabolized in the liver. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of amitriptyline can be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, amitriptyline must be used with caution in individuals with hepatic dysfunction.
- Amitriptyline is mainly excreted by the kidneys. Individuals with renal disease cannot excrete amitriptyline metabolites normally. The medication and metabolites of the medication can stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, amitriptyline must be used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function.
