Compare Elavil vs. Imitrex

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Elavil (amitriptyline)

Prescription only

Imitrex (Sumatriptan)

Prescription only
Improves mood.

Elavil (amitriptyline) regulates mood and treats nerve pain, but has more side effects than alternatives.

●●●●●
3.3/ 5 average rating with 134 reviewsforElavil
Treats migraine headaches.

Imitrex (Sumatriptan) is an excellent choice for acute migraine relief, but you might need another medication to prevent headaches.

●●●●●
3.9/ 5 average rating with 31 reviewsforImitrex
Upsides
  • Elavil (amitriptyline) works well to treat nerve pain and is non-habit forming.
  • Comes in several forms. Ask your doctor if you should use the pill, nasal spray, patch, or injection.
  • A combination of forms can be used if symptoms do not improve.
  • The nasal spray and injectable forms work very quickly.
  • It's generally safe to use if you are pregnant.
  • Comes in a generic form, so it can be pretty cheap.
Downsides
  • Elavil (amitriptyline) has more bothersome side effects than other antidepressants.
  • The oral and nasal versions of Imitrex (Sumatriptan) have an unpleasant after-taste.
  • Does not prevent migraine headaches; it only treats them once they start.
  • Must wait 1 hour before using second injection.
  • Can cause rebound (more) headaches if Imitrex (Sumatriptan) is used too often.
  • Need to have your blood pressure checked often, especially if you're pregnant.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Pill
  • Injection
  • Nasal spray
Price
Lowest price
$4.00
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Lowest price
$12.08
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Reviews
134 reviews so far
53%
saidit'sworth it
36%
saiditworked well
25%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Elavil (amitriptyline)?

Leave a review
31 reviews so far
74%
saidit'sworth it
68%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Imitrex (Sumatriptan)?

Leave a review
Side effects
The Elavil (amitriptyline) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
6possible side effects
  • Pain and other pressure sensations
    6%
  • Atypical sensations
    5%
  • Paresthesia (all types)
    3%
  • Sensation warm/cold
    3%
  • Pain - location specified
    2%
  • Malaise/fatigue
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
    • Age 24 years or younger
  • Mania
    • History of bipolar disorder
    • At risk for bipolar disorder
  • Heart problems
    • History of cardiovascular disease
  • Dizziness and falls
    • Age 65 years or older
    • Taking medicines to control blood pressure
  • Dehydration
    • Age 65 years or older
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Tightening of blood vessels (myocardial angina, ischemia, or infarction)
    • History of heart problems
    • High blood pressure
    • High cholesterol
    • Diabetes
    • Being overweight or obese
    • Smoking
  • Stroke
    • History of heart problems
    • High blood pressure
    • High cholesterol
    • Diabetes
    • Being overweight or obese
    • Smoking
  • Stomach bleeding
  • Serotonin syndrome
    • Patients taking SSRIs and SNRIs
  • High blood pressure
    • History of high blood pressure
  • Seizures
    • History of seizures
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Elavil (amitriptyline)
Learn more about Imitrex (Sumatriptan)