Amitriptyline- making you depressed
Hi everyone! So far, I have tried three different preventatives in the past year: topamax, propranolol, and now amitriptyline. the first two did almost nothing but give me side effects. I'm only 16, so the doctor is extremely cautious about how much and what I'm taking, especially since I am sensitive to most pills.
The last time I visited the doctor, he started me on amitriptyline alone (with sumatriptan when needed). My daily migraines have been reduced by half, but I've had the unsavory side effects of being depressed, extremely lethargic, and I have been having some minor suicidal thoughts.
Obviously, none of this is good, but my daily migraines have been practically cut in half, and I'm able to focus on my AP classes and my horse riding much easier since my brain feels better; however, with the side effects, I'm not sure if the result is worthwhile.
I love being happy, but the pill makes me so pessimistic. Has anyone had depression side effects while being on this antidepressant? Do you think it's worth it to be basically depressed for this level of relief? Thank you for reading!
Goingnowhere,
This is good news and bad news! So sorry you're dealing with this. Please let your doctor know of these side effects. There are other antidepressants you can try that may not give you suicidal thoughts and make you lethargic. I've been on Zoloft and Effexor in the past. Sometimes making the switch to a different med in the same class of drugs can make a difference (but I'm not a doctor).If for any reason, you are struggling with your thoughts please reach out for help!! Here's an important resource: https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-suicide-risk-know-facts-get-help/
Let us know if things change. Best wishes!
-Katie
Migraine.com ModeratorSynetc,
My doctor always recommends that I take my amitriptyline at night because it's known to make you sleepy. I have a hard time sleeping at night, so it really helps.-Katie
