What is the most common side effect of amitriptyline?

Amitriptyline is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as tricyclic antidepressants. While it is effective in treating depression, chronic pain, and other conditions, it can also cause a range of side effects. One of the most common side effects of amitriptyline is drowsiness, which can affect up to 40% of people taking the medication.

Drowsiness:

Drowsiness is the most common side effect of amitriptyline, affecting up to 40% of people taking the medication. This can be particularly problematic for people who need to be alert and focused during the day. However, drowsiness tends to improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Studies have shown that taking amitriptyline at night can help reduce drowsiness during the day.

Dry Mouth:

Dry mouth is another common side effect of amitriptyline, affecting up to 30% of people taking the medication. This can cause discomfort and increase the risk of dental problems. Drinking water frequently, chewing gum, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help reduce the symptoms of dry mouth.

Weight Gain:

Weight gain is a common side effect of amitriptyline, affecting up to 25% of people taking the medication. This can be particularly problematic for people who are already overweight or obese. Studies have shown that regular exercise and a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of weight gain while taking amitriptyline.

Blurred Vision:

Blurred vision is another common side effect of amitriptyline, affecting up to 15% of people taking the medication. This can cause difficulty seeing clearly, particularly when reading or driving. If you experience blurred vision while taking amitriptyline, it is important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

While these side effects are common, they tend to improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking amitriptyline, as they may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend other strategies to help manage your symptoms.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

Log In

Forgot password?

Forgot password?

Enter your account data and we will send you a link to reset your password.

Your password reset link appears to be invalid or expired.

Log in

Privacy Policy

Add to Collection

No Collections

Here you'll find all collections you've created before.