Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking amitriptyline as follows:
- Amitriptyline carries the risk of causing and/or aggravating cardiac arrhythmias. Amitriptyline can also 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. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of cardiac arrhythmias, if any, if you are newly started on amitriptyline. If you are newly diagnosed with any cardiac arrhythmias or started on any antiarrhythmic medications, discuss with your physician regarding your safety with continuing on amitriptyline, if you have been using the medication for long.
- Individuals with complaint of dehydration, secondary to history of diarrhea, vomiting, or poor fluid intake, can suffer electrolyte disturbances and be more prone to develop arrhythmias with amitriptyline. Electrolyte disturbances, such as, low potassium and magnesium levels, secondary to diuretic pill intake, can also act as a precipitating factor for cardiac arrhythmias with amitriptyline. Observing compliance with recommended hydration measures can help prevent development of arrhythmias in these individuals. Also, observe compliance with any periodical lab draws ordered for electrolyte levels and closely follow for development of signs and symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia, such as, episodes of chest pain, rapid heart rate, palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Report any such findings to your physician immediately, so that, an alternative plan of care could be considered.
- If you miss a dose, try taking it at the earliest notice of noncompliance. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the dose scheduled. Do not take an extra dose to try making up for the missed dose. Notify your doctor and other health care personnel regarding your dose noncompliance.
