Amitriptylin

[swansgal]

Has anyone taken amitriptylin. Been taking them for a month for chronic pain in the stomach. Just wondered if you need to come off them slowly.

[Ethel]

I am alarmed that you have been taking these for that condition.

They are usually prescribed as an anti-depressant and should not be prescribed to people with stomach problems.

In any case, a month is a long time to have chronic stomach pain.

Speak to your GP.

[alijangra]

It is actually sometimes prescribed for chronic pain and IBS. Im assuming you have already been to your gp for prescription of these, but you should definately return to speak to your gp about stopping them.

[alijangra]

Also as the term 'chronic' refers to a long standing problem or condition, 1 month is not a long time but infact a very short time.

[n00dles]

Yes, you have to be weaned off of them.

For instance, if you are on 40mg, the GP might advise you to take 30mg for 3 days, then 20mg for 3 days, etc etc.

But no two cases are the same and your GP might have an alternative method or time for putting you on a reducing regime, especially if they suggest you take them still but a lesser dose.

Only your GP can advise, do not attempt to stop or lessen the dose without consulting them first.

[Ethel]

alijangra is correct about the term 'chronic', but one month is a long time for unspecified stomach pain.

Unless you do have a long standing chronic condition - such as crones' disease or IBS.

If you feel you should be coming off them because the pain has gone, you still need to see your GP first.

[n00dles]

Yes, you do have to be weaned off of them.

Your GP will advise of the best way for you.
Generally if say you were on 40mg you would start on 30mg for 3 days, 20mg for 3 days and so on. In other words it would be a gradual decrease.

But no two cases are the same, so it is for your GP to advise which would be best for you to start a reducing regime.

Only your GP will know whether this is right for you to cut down your medication.

[n00dles]

Yes, you will need to be given a reduction regime

[TheMan]

Yes, you will be given a reduction regime by your GP if they think you need to be weaned off/or reduce your medication.

If you are on say 40mg, you might be told to reduce that to 30mg for 3 days, 20mg for 3 days and so on.

But only your GP will know what is best for you, and whether it is advisable to reduce of eliminate this medication. As no to cases are the same, and although I know of someone who stopped taking them with the method mentioned, it is doctor who will best advise you.

[swansgal]

Thanks everyone. Ive had the pain for about six months. Doctors told me it was non ulcer dyspepsia. Went to see consultant and said it was something to do with stomach nerves. I was shocked when they told me they were giving me these tablets, as they are anti depressants. But im taking 10mg a day. They have worked as the pain has gone completely. Just a bit worried about coming off them from what ive read.