NIOIN Drug Card Information

amitripityline
(You will need to made additional copies of these forms)
Generic Trade Classification Dose Route Time/Frequency
Name Name tricyclic 25-100mg/day PO single night or divided doses
amitripityline evavil antidepressant max
antineuralgic,antibulimic 300mg/day
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range (per kg in Pediatrics)
n/a .5-1hr 1-5mg/kg/day in divided doses
For IV meds, compatability with IV drips and/or solutions
Why is your patient taking this medication?
antidepressant antineuralgic,antibulimic
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
blocks reuptake of neurotransmitters acute recovery period after MI, use within 14 days of MAOIs. CAUTION: prostatic
(norepinephrine,seotonin) at presynaptic membranes, hypertrophy,history of urine retention or obstruction, glaucoma, diabetes mellitus, seizure
increasing availability at postsynaptic receptor history,hyperthyroidism, cardiac/hepatic/renal disease, schizophrenia, increased
sites. Strong anticolinergic activity. interocular pressure, hiatal hernia
Common side effects
dizziness,somnolence,dry mouth,orthostatic hypotension,headache,increased
appetite, weight gain,nausea,unusual fatigue,unpleasant taste

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC, or herbal Lab value alterations caused by medicine
medicines (ask patient specifically) may alter (flatten) EKG readings
CNS depressants may increase sedation, may increase or decrease serum glucose
respiratory depression, hypotensive effects.
antithyroid agents may increase risk of agranulocytosis. Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication
may decrease effects of clonidine. change positions slowly to avoid hypeotensive effect. Maximum effect might not
May increase cardiac effects with sympathomimetics. be noted for 2-4 weeks. Sensitivity to sun may occur. Report visual disturbances.
may increase risk of hypertensive crisis, hyperpyresis, don’t abruptly discontinue the medication.
seizures with MAOIs. St. john's wort may decrease levels; Avoid tasks requiring alertness until effects are known.
gotu kola,kava kava, valerian may increase CNS depression
Nursing Process - Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment Why would you hold or not give Check after giving
observe and record psychological status. this med?
Vital Signs CNS depression, MAOI medication Vital signs, mental status, mood, behavior,
lab values of serum levels