Health Organization for Pudendal Education

Hi, I have been taking amitryptyline/elavil that my doc prescribed nearly a year ago. I am on 10mg daily so low dose. Am worried that I might have to come of this medication as been on so long. Can anyone tell me how long can take this for?

Lenny,
I am not sure the exact answer but I have been on it for possibly 15 years at 25mg and I do see a pain specialist that has not said anything about it. He said I could switch to neurontin but did not say I had to change. Now with pne I am on both. I did read in AARP I think that older folks may start to have issues. Maybe someone else will have more knowledge but I think you may be okay. You could ask your doc or see a pain specialist.
Janet

Thanks Janet, i appreciate your help, Len

Lenny,

I have been on it, taking anywhere from 25-100mg at night for about three years. It does not help my pain much, but it does help me sleep. I have tried going off it, and it is not difficult as long as you do it gradually. The only annoying side effects for me are constipation and dry mouth which are dose related. This is a very old medication and so I think it is considered safe for long term use. My mother took it for years for back pain/depression, even in her seventies, but I could see that it might be a cause of dizziness or falls for the elderly. I don't think you are anywhere near this age group though.

Jeanie

Thanks jeanie

Just watch for possible side effects such as dystonia and if they occur, you will want to switch to something else. Most people don't have this problem but it can occur.