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Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant developed in 1960 to treat behavioral and mental illnesses in humans. In recent years, amitriptyline has found its way into veterinary medicine as an off-label treatment for anxiety, depression, excessive grooming, compulsive behaviors, and self-harm in canines and felines.
Tricyclic antidepressants boost serotonin and norepinephrine — the neurotransmitters responsible for making us feel "happy". Certain antidepressants, like amitriptyline, also have anticholinergic properties, meaning they prevent acetylcholine (a type of neurotransmitter) from binding to neuroreceptors. Many scientists believe neurochemical imbalances are responsible for mood disorders, and stabilizing levels can resolve the side effects of these conditions.A typical dose of amitriptyline is 0.5 to 2 mg per pound once or twice a day.
Your vet may recommend cutting amitriptyline tablets in halves or forths since it only comes in 3 strengths: 10 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg. Amitriptyline may be given before or after meals since food doesn't inhibit its absorption. Keep in mind some antidepressants cause nausea when taken on an empty stomach. If your dog refuses to take medicine or seems nauseous after taking amitriptyline, try wrapping the tablet in a piece of meat or cheese.
There’s conflicting data regarding amitriptyline's efficacy as a treatment option for mood and behavioral disorders.
One randomized, independently-reviewed study on amitriptyline as a treatment for humans with clinical depression found that it was more effective than the placebo at controlling symptoms of depression.
On the other hand, a separate clinical study of amitryptiline for aggressive canines found there was "no significant difference" in temperament when using this medication for behavioral modification.
The cost of amitryptiline depends on the dosage amount. 10 mg tablets cost as low as 10¢ to 20¢ per tablet. 100 mg tablets cost $1.50 per tablet on average. Prices may also vary depending on costs of living and veterinary expenses in the local area.
Fatigue
Increased thirst
Constipation
Lightheadedness
Weight gain
Difficulties urinating
Excitability
Tremors
Change in heart rhythm
Low white blood cell counts
Agitation
Confusion
Change in tongue color
It takes most antidepressants 2 to 6 weeks to make a noticeable difference in mood. During this time, the body adjusts to the medicine and the change in brain chemistry.
This medication is not recommended for canines with epilepsy, since amitriptyline may trigger seizures in some dogs. Amitriptyline may exacerbate thyroid problems, heart arrhythmias, and some eye conditions.
This medication may raise blood sugar levels in some dogs. Canines with type 1 diabetes should have their glucose levels closely monitored while on this medication.
Studies show humans with liver disease are at a slightly higher risk for hepatotoxicity while on amitryptiline. Only use this medication in dogs with low liver function if the benefits far outweigh the risks.
Refrain from using flea collars on pets taking this medication. Many of these collars contain MAOIs that can interact with amitriptyline.
The FDA cautions against using this medication while pregnant or nursing since it's known to cause congenital defects in humans. It’s also not recommended for pregnant or lactating dogs. Amitryptiline may worsen adrenal gland tumors; canines with this condition should only take this medicine if absolutely necessary.
Extreme caution should be used when using amitriptyline for dogs in combination with any of the following medications:
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Anti-thyroid drugs
Cimetidine
Anti-platelet medication
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen and aspirin)
Warfarin
Anticholinergic medications
Clonidine
Guanabenz
Cardiac stimulants like arbutamine
Certain types of antidepressants
Do not use this medication if your pet has had reactions to tricyclic antidepressants in the past. Contact your vet immediately if your dog exhibits hives, swelling, or trouble breathing after ingesting this medication.
All antidepressants take weeks and even months to regulate in the system. Just because you don't see any noticeable changes doesn't mean it's not working. It may take another few weeks before your dog's symptoms start to improve.
If it's been more than two hours since your dog's missed dose, wait until the next time their medication is due and continue their schedule as usual. Never double up on this medicine to make up for a missed pill.
Drowsiness is a typical side effect of amitriptyline for dogs. Generally, the fatigue subsides after the dog adjusts to this medication after a few weeks.
Separation anxiety is one of the most common reasons vets prescribe this medication to their patients. Many pet parents find amitriptyline significantly reduces their pet’s anxiety and improves overall wellbeing.
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Written by a lover Mel Lee-Smith
Veterinary reviewed by:
Published: 09/07/2020, edited: 09/23/2020
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