IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
(am-eh-TRIP-teh-leen WITH klor-dye-azz-eh-POX-ide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Limbitrol
USES: Amitriptyline is an antidepressant used to treat depression. Chlordiazepoxide is an anti-anxiety medication used to relieve nervousness and tension. This combination medication works faster and has less side effects than either medication alone.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed. Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor's approval. Nausea, headache or fatigue can occur if the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may have to be gradually decreased if you have been taking it for some time.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, increased sun sensitivity or blurred vision. Other side effects may include stomach upset, headache, lightheadedness, confusion, depression, impaired coordination, trembling, weakness, memory loss, hangover effect (grogginess), dreaming or nightmares, loss of appetite, dry mouth, anxiety, restlessness or sweating. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, vision changes, difficulty urinating, yellowing of the eyes or skin, uncoordinated movements, fainting, ringing in the ears. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: glaucoma, prostate problems, decreased urine output, thyroid disease, breathing problems, seizure problems, alcohol use, heart disease, mental/emotional problems, liver or kidney disease, drug allergies. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving). This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear a sunscreen and protective clothing. Limit alcohol while taking this to avoid excessive drowsiness. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly, because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug (e.g., confusion may occur or worsen). This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk and may have an effect on the nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the drugs you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially if you take other medicines that make you sleepy such as: narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), cimetidine, anti-thyroid medicine, SSRI antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, fluvoxamine), St John's wort. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, confusion, fast heartbeat, lightheadedness, and dilated pupils.
NOTES: Taking this medication at bedtime may help minimize side effects. Talk to your doctor about this.
MISSED DOSE: Do not double dose if missed. Skip missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Developed by First DataBank, Inc., San Bruno, CA
Copyright 2004 by First DataBank, Inc.