HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Is Amitriptyline Prescribed For Chronic Cough Advisable For An Elderly Person?

I have been prescribed Amitriptyline 10mg twice daily to help get rid of a chronic cough. I am 76 years old and Humana and my local pharmacy said it is not good for the elderly. My allergist is trying to rid me of a chronic cough that I have had for the past 20 years. He found I m allergic to the environment. I also take Nosacort a nose spray - 2 sprays per nostril at bedtime and a generic singular at bedtime. Why is it dangerous for the elderly?
Tue, 2 Feb 2016
Report Abuse
Dentist,  's  Response
Hi Dear,

Welcome to HCM.

Understanding your concern. As per your query you have symptoms of chronic cough which is due to upper respiratory tract infection leading to bronchitis/ granular pharyngitis. Need not to worry. I would suggest you to do warm saline gargles and take steam twice a day. Amitriptyline is advisable medication, you should monitor dosage while taking it. Avoid use of sharp and spicy food substances. Avoid cold carbonated beverages. Your symptoms will resolve in 1 week. if symptoms keeps on persisting you should consult ENT specialist and take proper treatment. You should get X-ray chest done along with pulmonary function tests. Doctor may prescribe antibiotics ( amoxicillin or penicillin ) at least for 5 days along with decongestant.

Hope your concern has been resolved.

Get Well Soon.

Best Wishes,
Dr. Harry Maheshwari
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
Is Amitriptyline Prescribed For Chronic Cough Advisable For An Elderly Person?

Hi Dear, Welcome to HCM. Understanding your concern. As per your query you have symptoms of chronic cough which is due to upper respiratory tract infection leading to bronchitis/ granular pharyngitis. Need not to worry. I would suggest you to do warm saline gargles and take steam twice a day. Amitriptyline is advisable medication, you should monitor dosage while taking it. Avoid use of sharp and spicy food substances. Avoid cold carbonated beverages. Your symptoms will resolve in 1 week. if symptoms keeps on persisting you should consult ENT specialist and take proper treatment. You should get X-ray chest done along with pulmonary function tests. Doctor may prescribe antibiotics ( amoxicillin or penicillin ) at least for 5 days along with decongestant. Hope your concern has been resolved. Get Well Soon. Best Wishes, Dr. Harry Maheshwari