What is the brand name for Amitriptyline?
The brand name for Amitriptyline is Elavil.
PTCE Top 200 · #90
Amitriptyline
Elavil
Amitriptyline is the generic name for the brand-name drug Elavil. It is a tricyclic antidepressant (tca) used to treat depression, nerve pain. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Amitriptyline ranks #90 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Amitriptyline |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Elavil |
| Drug class | Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | depression, nerve pain |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Amitriptyline used for?
Tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression; commonly used off‑label for neuropathic pain and migraine prevention at lower doses.
What drug class is Amitriptyline?
Amitriptyline is a Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Amitriptyline
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightDrowsiness
- arrow_rightWeight gain/increased appetite
- arrow_rightBlurred vision
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightOrthostatic hypotension
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors: contraindicated (serious reactions/serotonin syndrome)—observe washout periods
- arrow_rightOther serotonergic drugs (SSRIs/SNRIs, tramadol, linezolid, etc.) ↑ serotonin syndrome risk
- arrow_rightCNS depressants (alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines) ↑ sedation
- arrow_rightDrugs that prolong QT or strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine) may ↑ arrhythmia/toxicity risk
Is Amitriptyline a controlled substance?
No. Amitriptyline is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
WARNING: SUICIDALITY AND ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS — increased risk of suicidal thinking/behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults; monitor closely.
How to remember Amitriptyline (PTCE mnemonic)
EL-avil 'ELevates' mood the OLD way — amiTRIPtyline (TCA): 'TRIP' on anticholinergic (dry/blurry/constipated/urinary retention) + sleepy + QT/orthostasis; overdose lethal.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant — strong anticholinergic effects and dangerous in overdose; often used off-label for nerve pain or migraine.
Amitriptyline FAQ
What is Amitriptyline used for?
Amitriptyline is used to treat depression, nerve pain. Tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression; commonly used off‑label for neuropathic pain and migraine prevention at lower doses.
What drug class is Amitriptyline?
Amitriptyline is a Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) (CNS/Psych group).
Is Amitriptyline a controlled substance?
No. Amitriptyline is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Amitriptyline the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).