Compare Elavil vs. Imitrex
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Improves mood.
Elavil (amitriptyline) regulates mood and treats nerve pain, but has more side effects than alternatives.
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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.
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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.
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Pill
- Injection
- Nasal spray
Price
Lowest price
$4.00
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$12.47
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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 review31 reviews so far
74%
saidit'sworth it
68%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Imitrex (Sumatriptan)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
The Elavil (amitriptyline) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
6possible side effects
- Pain and other pressure sensations6%
- Atypical sensations5%
- Paresthesia (all types)3%
- Sensation warm/cold3%
- Pain - location specified2%
- Malaise/fatigue2%
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
- 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