Amitriptyline hydrochloride overdose
Key points
- Poisoning from an overdose of amitriptyline hydrochloride, which is a tricyclic antidepressent.
- Home Treatment Contact Poison Control to obtain treatment guidance.
- Expectations (prognosis) A serious overdose of this drug almost always requires hospital care.
- Poison Control, or a local emergency number They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital.
Alternative names
Elavil; Adepril; Endep; Enovil; Trepiline
Definition
Poisoning from an overdose of amitriptyline hydrochloride, which is a tricyclic antidepressent.
Poisonous Ingredient
- amitriptyline
Where Found
- Adepril
- Elavil
- Endep
- Enovil
- Trepiline
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms
- body as a whole
o dry mouth
o urinary hesitancy
o muscle rigidity
o convulsions (sudden onset)
o shock
o incoordination - respiratory
o slowed, labored breathing - eyes, ears, nose, and throat
o blurred vision - gastrointestinal
o increased appetite
o constipation
o weight gain
o vomiting - heart and blood vessels
o low blood pressure
o rapid heart rate - nervous system
o drowsiness
o dizziness
o headache
o stupor
o coma (sudden onset)
o agitation
o restlessness
o hallucinations
Home Treatment
Contact Poison Control to obtain treatment guidance.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- the patient's age, weight, and condition
- the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
- the time it was swallowed
- the amount swallowed
- if the medication was prescribed for the patient
Poison Control, or a local emergency number
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.
What to expect at the emergency room
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.