Kickas.org Forums Treatments, Drugs and Alternatives AS Pharmacy Amitriptyline ?

Dear George:

I'm sorry, it's taken me a while to notice this post, as I was studying for an exam I wrote on Monday.

Please keep in mind when you're reading that drug profile, that amitriptyline was originally used solely as an anti-depressant and in MUCH larger doses than the 10-25 mg people with chronic/neuropathic pain use nightly. Also, on those drug profiles, they need to mention virtually every side effect that has even been reported (even if there's no clear link that it was caused by the drug, or if it was reported in a single person). While looking over the whole profile is important, what is usually a better gauge is to read the bit about 'most commonly reported side effects' (and to remember in this case, you're using a very small dose).

Hope it gives you some good relief, and minimal (or no) side effects.

Love,
J

Hi Jeanna,

Thanks for the clarification re how seriously to take all the warnings re side-effects. While I have never even considered being depressed about having AS, I have certainly reached the point of still having to deal with it. Really! how long should I have to have this damned disease? In four months, I will be starting my 55th year with AS.

I did have a fair bit of being groggy and that may be enhanced because of my light weight. Anyway, I am happy that he started me on this drug. The last few nights have been the first time in years that I have had over 10 hours of sleep.

Thanks again and
Big hugs,

George

In the two years that I have been taking it and FINALLLLLLLLYYYY sleeping, I have learned:

1. To overcome the sleepy morning syndrome, take it earlier in the night. One hour made all the difference for me. It was easier to be relaxed earlier at night than it was to fight the drowsiness in the morning getting kids to school and me to work an hour away.

2. Because it is a mood modifier, NEVER, EVER take it inconsistently. Take the pill every day. If you have problems, discuss it with your Doc before going cold turkey. Taking it one day and not the next day or next two days really messes with me. I am REALLLLLLYYY a B word....no patience with anything or anyone. My rheumy told me to take it until I could see him or a GP that see-sawing it was not good for you.

3. The side effect that I have noticed is morning dizziness. I have learned to sit up for a few minutes and sip some water before I stand.


OK, so that is my two cents!!
Holly

Thanks for the info since I started taking this med. I am taking the 10mg tablets as the Doc figured that with my low body weight, it was enough for me.

This is the end of the first week of taking them and my groggy feeling in the morning only lasts for half an hour now so I am lucky.

I haven't felt this good for many years.

George

Glad to hear it's working for you. I figure at the cellular level, our cells need rest so sleep is important even if you have to contend w/grogginess. Be careful, don't turn into this guy...

I might turn into that guy. I'm almost the same age as he is.

OldGeorge

Amanda,

How has the amitriptyline done for you? Just got my prescription finally today.

Sharon

It does help me sleep but I'm really tired the next day. Not just the yawns, like falling asleep in my chair when I'm working after 3 cups of coffee. Maybe it will just take my body a while to adjust to it. But I do love the sleep I hope it works well for you.

Amanda

Hi Amanda,
Have you checked to see if you are allergic to wheat? I can eat almost anything greasy, hot Tex/Mex but I cannot tolerate one slice of bread. I bloat, get sharp pains and then of course the big Diah. Starch is next in causing problems, then grease. Dear friend, I also cut way back on the pop. It is a killer of us. Try hot lemonade,etc.
My daughter, older than you, went off wheat and her crohns goes into remission. Please try it?
My best to you.
Lon

My headache specialist doctor prescribe amitriptyline 10 mg for the prevention of my frequent headaches and migraines. I tried it once and the next morning I felt too groggy. So, I splitted the pill in half and took it for 4 months. It did help my headache a little bit (reduced to about 6 days per month). I'd like to have even less headache so I'm taking a whole pill (10 mg) now. I didn't know that this pill can help with chronic pain. My rheumy knows that I'm taking this pill but never told me anything about it. My body did get used to the groggy part. I just have to make sure I don't have to get up before 7 to 8 hours of sleep. I do notice I become constipated and dizzy when I move my head too fast. I didn't know why so I went to a naturopath to ask for remedies. Now, I do know why after reading all the threads ! Thanks guys ! My question is do we get addicted to it and have to increase the dosage to relieve our symptoms while our bodies get used to it ?

Olivia