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Can Amitriptyline And Donepezil Be Given Together For Alzheimer's Disease?
Question: My sister has Alzheimers, she has been prescribed Amitriptyline 10mg and donepezil 5mg. I am giving them together. Is this safe?
Brief Answer:
Amitriptyline not the ideal choice.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
In terms of taking them both there is no dangerous interaction, no major safety issues.
However amitriptyline is not the best choice in my opinion in someone that age. One of its side effects is orthostatic hypotension, which increases danger of falls, so not preferred in the elderly.
Another issue I have with it is that Amitriptyline is not considered the best option in an Alzheimer's patient, it may have a negative effect on dementia.
So I would discuss with your doctor the necessity of Amitriptyline, if given for antidepressant effect a SSRI like Citalopram would be preferable.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Amitriptyline not the ideal choice.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
In terms of taking them both there is no dangerous interaction, no major safety issues.
However amitriptyline is not the best choice in my opinion in someone that age. One of its side effects is orthostatic hypotension, which increases danger of falls, so not preferred in the elderly.
Another issue I have with it is that Amitriptyline is not considered the best option in an Alzheimer's patient, it may have a negative effect on dementia.
So I would discuss with your doctor the necessity of Amitriptyline, if given for antidepressant effect a SSRI like Citalopram would be preferable.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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