Amitriptyline
(a-mih-trip-ti-leen)
Description: Tricyclic Behavior Modifier; Antipruritic; Neuropathic Pain Modifier
Other Names forthis Medication: Elavil®

How is this medication useful? Veterinarians may prescribe amitriptyline for treating a variety of problems in dogs, cats, and birds. This drug has been used to treat behavior disorders such as separation anxiety (ie, petfeels anxious when away from you) and generalized anxiety in dogs. Signs of
these disorders include excessive grooming, biting or chewing of skin, destructive behavior, in addition to urine spraying in cats and feather plucking in birds. Amitriptyline has also been tried in dogs and cats to reduce itching and pain caused by nerve injury. Amitriptyline has been used to treat urinary bladder inflammation (ie, feline idiopathic cystitis [FIC]). The FDA has approved this drug for use in humans, but it is not officially approved for use in animals. The FDA allows veterinarians to prescribe products containing this drug in different species or for other conditions in certain situations. You and your veterinarian can discuss why this drug is the most appropriate choice.

Common, but not serious side effects include: Drowsiness (sleepiness). Dry mouth. Constipation.
You don’t have to be overly concerned if you see any of these signs unless they are severe, worsen, or continue to be a problem. Contact your veterinarian if this happens.

If you have any other questions about this medication, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.