atril 5 tablet - Amitriptyline (5mg) medicine

Atril 5 Tablet (Amitriptyline 5mg): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Masson Healthcare Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for neuropathic pain and migraine prophylaxis; moderate for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 22, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Severe eye pain or sudden vision changes
  • Inability to pass urine
  • Seizures
  • Confusion or hallucinations
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is atril 5 tablet used for?

Amitriptyline 5 mg is a low-dose tricyclic antidepressant used mainly for nerve pain, migraine prevention, and sometimes sleep problems. It works by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which reduces pain signals. It is usually taken at night and should not be stopped suddenly.

  • Generic Name: Amitriptyline
  • Manufacturer: Masson Healthcare Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 atril 5 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा अमिट्रिप्टिलाइन 5 मिलीग्राम की होती है और मुख्य रूप से नसों के दर्द, माइग्रेन की रोकथाम और कभी-कभी नींद न आने की समस्या में उपयोग की जाती है। यह दवा दिमाग में सेरोटोनिन और नॉरएपिनेफ्रिन के स्तर को बढ़ाकर दर्द के संकेतों को कम करती है। यह आमतौर पर रात में ली जाती है क्योंकि इससे नींद आ सकती है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना बंद न करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुँह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि, कब्ज, चक्कर आना और वजन बढ़ना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इसमें अनियमित दिल की धड़कन, गंभीर एलर्जी, भ्रम और दौरे पड़ सकते हैं। अगर आपको कोई परेशानी हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपने आप मात्रा न बढ़ाएँ या घटाएँ। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक गाड़ी न चलाएँ। शराब न पिएँ। अन्य दवाओं के बारे में डॉक्टर को बताएँ। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। दवा अचानक बंद न करें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 atril 5 tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Neuropathic pain","description":"This medicine is used at low doses to relieve nerve pain caused by diabetes, shingles, or other nerve damage.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Migraine prophylaxis","description":"It helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks when taken regularly.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Chronic tension-type headache","description":"Low-dose amitriptyline is sometimes prescribed to prevent chronic tension headaches.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Depression","description":"At higher doses, this medicine is used to treat major depressive disorder, but the 5 mg strength is not typically used for this purpose alone.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Because of its sedating effect, it is sometimes used short-term to help with sleep, especially when pain is the cause of sleeplessness.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)","description":"Low-dose amitriptyline may help reduce abdominal pain and diarrhea in some IBS patients.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Fibromyalgia","description":"Sometimes prescribed to improve sleep and reduce pain in fibromyalgia, though evidence is mixed.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Interstitial cystitis","description":"May be used to reduce bladder pain and urinary frequency in some patients.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Neuropathic pain

Also treats: Migraine prophylaxis, Chronic tension-type headache, Depression, Insomnia

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Amitriptyline
Brand NameAmitone 10mg Tablet
ManufacturerMasson Healthcare Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassTricyclic antidepressants
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at bedtime to reduce daytime drowsiness.
2
Do not stop this medicine suddenly; always taper under medical supervision.
3
Avoid alcohol and other sedatives while taking this medicine.
4
Inform your doctor if you have heart problems, glaucoma, or difficulty passing urine.
5
Monitor for mood changes or suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults.
6
Use sugar-free gum or saliva substitutes for dry mouth.
7
Increase fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation.
8
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position to avoid dizziness.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Chronic nerve pain
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Frequent migraines
This medicine is used for migraine prevention.
Likely Use
✅
Depression
At higher doses, it is used for depression, but 5 mg is not typical.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Acute pain
This medicine is not for acute pain relief.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionAmitriptyline is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The bioavailability is approximately 30-60% due to first-pass metabolism.
DistributionAmitriptyline is highly lipophilic and distributes widely into body tissues, including the brain. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingAmitriptyline is approximately 95% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismAmitriptyline is metabolized in the liver primarily by CYP2D6, CYP2C19, and CYP1A2 enzymes into its active metabolite nortriptyline and other metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of amitriptyline ranges from 10 to 50 hours, with an average of about 20 hours. The half-life of its active metabolite nortriptyline is longer, ranging from 18 to 44 hours.
ExcretionAmitriptyline and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine and to a lesser extent in the feces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of amitriptyline is approximately 30-60%.
Onset of ActionPain relief may take several days to weeks to become noticeable. Sedative effects may occur within 1-2 hours after a dose.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached within 2-4 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe effects of a single dose can last up to 24 hours, but the full therapeutic effect for pain or depression may take 2-4 weeks of regular use.

How It Works

This medicine works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain and spinal cord, which increases their availability and helps to reduce pain signals and improve mood. It also blocks histamine H1 receptors, muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, which contributes to its sedative, dry mouth, and blood pressure effects.

Mechanism Steps

1
Inhibition of serotonin reuptake: This medicine blocks the serotonin transporter, leading to increased serotonin in the synaptic cleft, which helps modulate pain and mood.
2
Inhibition of norepinephrine reuptake: It also blocks the norepinephrine transporter, increasing norepinephrine levels, which contributes to pain relief and alertness.
3
Antagonism of histamine H1 receptors: Blocking histamine H1 receptors causes sedation and drowsiness, which is why the medicine is often taken at night.
4
Antagonism of muscarinic receptors: Blocking muscarinic receptors leads to dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention.
5
Antagonism of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors: This can cause dizziness and orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure on standing).

💡 How to Take atril 5 tablet

Strength: Amitriptyline 5 mg immediate-release oral tablet

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2It is usually taken at bedtime to minimize daytime drowsiness.
3You may take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
4Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
5Follow your doctor's instructions exactly regarding dose and timing.
6Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. For neuropathic pain or migraine prevention, a common starting dose is 5 mg to 10 mg taken at bedtime, which may be gradually increased up to 25 mg to 50 mg daily if needed and tolerated. For depression, higher doses are used, but the 5 mg strength is not typically used alone. Always follow your doctor's prescription exactly.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, confusion, and urinary retention. Start with a low dose (e.g., 5 mg at bedtime) and increase gradually under medical supervision.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be required. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose for outpatient use is typically 150 mg, but for the 5 mg strength, the maximum is determined by the prescriber based on the condition. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases sedation and dizziness.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of atril 5 tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-30%))
Take the dose at bedtime. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
Dry mouth (Common (10-30%))
Sip water, chew sugar-free gum, or use saliva substitutes. Consult doctor if severe.
Constipation (Common (10-30%))
Increase fiber and fluid intake. Use stool softeners if needed after consulting your doctor.
Blurred vision (Common (5-10%))
Usually temporary. Avoid driving if vision is affected. Report if persistent.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid alcohol.
Weight gain (Common (5-10%))
Monitor diet and exercise. Consult doctor if concerned.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, fainting, or chest pain.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if you have swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
Increased intraocular pressure (acute glaucoma) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate care if you have severe eye pain, redness, or sudden vision changes.
Urinary retention (Rare (<0.1%))
Go to emergency if you cannot pass urine.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if a seizure occurs.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias (e.g., agranulocytosis)
Report any unusual fever, sore throat, or bleeding to your doctor immediately.
Liver toxicity (hepatitis)
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor.
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)
Seek emergency care for high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, or irregular pulse.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAO inhibitors Major
SSRIs/SNRIs Major
CYP2D6 inhibitors Major
QT-prolonging drugs Major
CNS depressants Moderate
Anticholinergic drugs Moderate
Clonidine Moderate
Thyroid medications Moderate
Cimetidine Minor
Rifampicin Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
  • Other antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs)
  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine)
  • QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., methadone, certain antipsychotics)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol)
  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., antihistamines, antispasmodics)
  • Alpha-2 agonists (e.g., clonidine)
  • Thyroid medications

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It may also worsen depression.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to amitriptyline or other tricyclic antidepressants","Recent myocardial infarction","Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors","Severe liver disease","Uncontrolled glaucoma","Urinary retention (e.g., due to enlarged prostate)","Breastfeeding without medical advice"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not stop suddenly; taper under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.","May increase risk of suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults; monitor closely.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of falls, confusion, and urinary retention.","May cause orthostatic hypotension; rise slowly from sitting or lying position.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures, heart disease, or thyroid problems."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Amitriptyline is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, but monitor the infant for drowsiness or poor feeding. Consult your doctor.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of amitriptyline is a medical emergency and can be fatal. Symptoms include severe drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, seizures, and coma. If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal, sodium bicarbonate for cardiac toxicity, and intensive monitoring.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, because it can cause drowsiness. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially MAO inhibitors, other antidepressants, painkillers, and blood pressure medicines. Do not stop this medicine suddenly, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms like headache, nausea, and restlessness. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, confusion, constipation, and urinary retention. Start with a low dose and monitor closely. Increased risk of falls.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It may be used if the benefits outweigh the risks, but close monitoring is required.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine, as it can interact with anesthetic agents and affect heart rhythm. It may need to be stopped before surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine, as it can cause dry mouth and increase the risk of dental problems. It may also interact with certain dental anesthetics.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
🥗
Stay physically active with low-impact exercises like walking or swimming.
😴
Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress.
💧
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
🧘
Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber to prevent constipation.
🌞
Stay hydrated to reduce dry mouth.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how it affects you. Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent dizziness.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Stay well hydrated.
Avoid grapefruit juice.
Limit caffeine if it worsens your symptoms.
Eat regular meals to avoid weight gain.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It may affect your concentration. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Inform your employer if your job requires alertness.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your condition improves, your doctor may gradually reduce the dose. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to weight gain, dental problems due to dry mouth, and increased risk of falls in the elderly. Regular monitoring of cardiac function, liver function, and mental status is advised. Do not stop without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Physical therapy

Can help manage neuropathic pain and improve mobility.

Evidence: Well-established
Cognitive behavioral therapy

Useful for chronic pain and depression.

Evidence: Well-established
Acupuncture

May help with pain relief in some patients.

Evidence: Limited

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific interactions with vaccines are known. However, consult your doctor before any vaccination if you are on this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or cold. If crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the timing of your dose. Check local customs regulations for controlled substances, as some countries may have restrictions.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 52-year-old woman with diabetic nerve pain in her feet
She was prescribed this medicine at 5 mg at bedtime. After two weeks, she noticed her burning foot pain was significantly reduced, and she could sleep better. She experienced dry mouth initially, which improved with time. She was advised not to stop the medicine suddenly.
💡 Lesson: Low-dose amitriptyline can effectively reduce nerve pain, but it takes time to work and should be tapered off gradually.
👤 A 38-year-old man with frequent migraines
He started this medicine for migraine prevention. After one month, the frequency of his migraines decreased from 4 per month to 1 per month. He was advised to take it at night to avoid daytime drowsiness. He also made lifestyle changes like regular sleep and hydration.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and lifestyle modifications enhance the effectiveness of this medicine for migraine prevention.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: For nerve pain, it may take 1-2 weeks to notice improvement, and up to 4-6 weeks for full effect. For migraine prevention, it may take several weeks.

Q: Can I stop this medicine suddenly?

A: No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like headache, nausea, and restlessness. Always taper under medical supervision.

Q: Is it safe to take with other painkillers?

A: It depends on the painkiller. Some may interact. Always consult your doctor before combining.

Q: Will it make me sleepy?

A: Yes, drowsiness is common, especially at the start. Taking it at bedtime helps.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Will I gain weight?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?

🔄 Substitutes for atril 5 tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Amitriptyline is only for depression.
    Fact: At low doses, it is commonly used for nerve pain and migraine prevention, not just depression.
  • Myth: You can stop amitriptyline anytime without side effects.
    Fact: Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like headache, nausea, and restlessness. Always taper under medical guidance.
  • Myth: Amitriptyline is addictive.
    Fact: It is not considered addictive in the traditional sense, but it can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.
  • Myth: It works immediately for pain.
    Fact: It may take several days to weeks to notice pain relief.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Amitriptyline 5 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Atril 5 Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Amitriptyline","class":"TCA","main_use":"Neuropathic pain, migraine","sedation":"High","anticholinergic":"High"},{"medicine":"Nortriptyline","class":"TCA","main_use":"Neuropathic pain, depression","sedation":"Moderate","anticholinergic":"Moderate"},{"medicine":"Duloxetine","class":"SNRI","main_use":"Neuropathic pain, depression","sedation":"Low","anticholinergic":"Low"},{"medicine":"Gabapentin","class":"Anticonvulsant","main_use":"Neuropathic pain, seizures","sedation":"Moderate","anticholinergic":"None"}]

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