Amitriptyline

Major Uses

Amitriptyline is used to treat separation anxiety in dogs and cats. The drug can be given to help prevent nervous behavior such as inappropriate urination in cats and obsessive grooming behavior in both dogs and cats. In some cases, Amitriptyline is also used to treat lower urinary tract disease in cats.

Common Precautions

Side effects most commonly associated with Amitriptyline are drowsiness and sedation. Dry mouth and constipation can occur. Amitriptyline should be used with caution in pregnant animals or those with seizure disorders. To prevent possible drug interactions, a veterinarian should be informed of all other medications the pet is taking.

Amitriptyline should not be administered in animals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug. Emergency veterinary care should be sought if an animal experiences any unusual symptoms.

Storage

Oral suspension should be refrigerated. All other forms should be kept at room temperature away from sunlight. The injectable form should be protected from freezing.

Administration

Amitriptyline is available in a tablet, oral suspension, injectable, and transdermal gel.

A typical dose range for Amitriptyline in dogs is 1-2mg/kg PO q12; Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.

If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the subsequent dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dose administration schedule resumed. Two doses of Amitriptyline should not be administered at the same time.