Warning Before Starting Elavil

• Elavil should not be taken if you have had an allergic reaction to any tricyclic medication in the past. It also needs to be carefully considered before giving it to children. It can increase the chance of suicidal thought and behavior in children and young adults.
  
  

Elavil and Blood Pressure

• Elavil can affect the blood pressure. When combined with epinephrine, it can cause dangerously high blood pressure. On its own, it can cause high blood pressure and fast or irregular heartbeat, sometimes even leading to heart attacks. Conversely, it can also cause low blood pressure upon standing (which can lead to dizziness or fainting).
  
  

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

• Since high blood pressure can lead to serious heart problems, anyone taking elavil should be aware of symptoms of this to watch for when beginning the medication. If you have a severe headache or blurred vision, check immediately with your medical provider.
  
  

Other Side Effects of Elavil

• Elavil has some other side effects. Weight gain is a possibility. So is dry mouth and constipation. Sweating, agitation and difficulty urinating may be possible side effects, also. These are irritating but treatable. Some other more serious ones include seizures,strokes and heart attacks.
  
  

Benefits

• Though the side effects sound serious, elavil has worked well for many individuals. Some have no or minimal negative effects from taking the medication. If an individual is prescribed elavil, he needs to be aware that they are taking a drug that is powerful, may be very helpful, but does have side effects. He should work closely with his physician to monitor and manage these issues in order to have the optimal benefit of elavil.