Examples

How It Works

Experts do not know exactly how tricyclic antidepressants improve symptoms of fibromyalgia. They may help some people with fibromyalgia to sleep better through the night by increasing the deep phase of sleep and decreasing muscle spasms.¹

Why It Is Used

Doctors may prescribe tricyclic antidepressants when sleep problems are a major symptom of fibromyalgia.

How Well It Works

Some research shows that tricyclics may work better than other antidepressants for treating fibromyalgia symptoms. They are good at helping with sleep problems. But they may become less effective over time.²

Side Effects

All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
• Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
• If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:

• Trouble breathing.
• Hives.
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor right away if you have:

• Thoughts of suicide.
• Agitation and restlessness.
• Seizures.
• Fast heartbeat.
• Nausea and vomiting.

Common side effects of this medicine include:

• Dry mouth.
• Dizziness.
• Drowsiness.
• Headache.
• Weight gain.
• Constipation.

FDA advisory. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an advisory on antidepressant medicines and the risk of suicide. The FDA does not recommend that people stop using these medicines. Instead, a person taking antidepressants should be watched for warning signs of suicide. This is especially important when treatment begins or when the doses are changed.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Never suddenly stop taking TCAs. The use of any antidepressant should be tapered off slowly and only under the supervision of a doctor. Abruptly stopping antidepressant medicines can cause negative side effects or a relapse of your condition.