Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Elavil as follows: Elavil use, especially along with a few other antidepressants, such as, citalopram, fluoxetine, and sertraline, can significantly increase the serotonin levels in the body and lead to development of serotonin syndrome. Caution must be exercised even when discontinuing on any of the above mentioned antidepressant medications with potential to increase serotonin levels and starting on Elavil, by observing a window period of atleast 2 weeks, [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Elavil as follows: Elavil can interact with a number of other medications and can precipitate serious reactions. If you are being newly started on Elavil, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with Elavil. Also, if you have been taking Elavil for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of Elavil intake, when you are being started on any [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Elavil as follows: Musculoskeletal side-effects Elavil intake carries the risk of lowering the threshold for seizures, thereby, resulting in seizure activity, especially in individuals with history of the same. Elavil intake 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, [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Elavil as follows: Gastrointestinal side-effects                                                                  Elavil use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting. Taking dose of Elavil with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication. Elavil can also induce extreme dry mouth and constipation. Sucking on a sugar free hard candy can help with symptomatic relief of [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Elavil as follows: Central nervous system side-effects Elavil can induce some dizziness and make one drowsy. Starting the medication at a low dose, watching for the response, and gradually changing the dose, to help optimum control of your symptoms, can contribute to controlling/reducing the risk for drowsiness and dizziness due to the medication. If the dizziness becomes bothersome, report it to your physician and other health care [...]