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Amitriptyline

Prescription

Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA)

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

2 available

Interactions

3 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Inhibits reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine at presynaptic nerve terminals. Also has anticholinergic, antihistaminic, and alpha-adrenergic blocking properties. Used for behavior disorders, neuropathic pain, and feline idiopathic cystitis.

At a glance

Class

Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA)

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for separation anxiety, noise phobias, compulsive behaviors, and neuropathi

Dose

1–2 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q12–24h

🐈

Cat

Used for feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), inappropriate elimination, psychogeni

Dose

0.5–1 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q12–24h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Behavioral response at 4–6 weeksBody weightCBC periodicallyCardiac rhythm if pre-existing heart disease

Educational reference only

Interactions

Major — 2

Tramadol

major

Additive serotonin reuptake inhibition. TCAs + tramadol: serotonin syndrome and seizure risk.

Management: Avoid combination. If both pain and behavioral indications, use non-serotonergic opioid.

Fluoxetine

major

Fluoxetine inhibits CYP2D6 metabolism of amitriptyline, increasing TCA levels. Both serotonergic — serotonin syndrome risk.

Management: Avoid. Allow adequate washout (5 weeks from fluoxetine).

Moderate — 1

Acepromazine

moderate

Both have alpha-adrenergic blocking properties (hypotension) and anticholinergic effects. Additive sedation and cardiovascular depression.

Management: Monitor blood pressure and heart rate. Reduce doses when combining. Watch for excessive sedation.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Elavil

Amitril

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Amitriptyline?

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (tca) used in pets. Inhibits reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine at presynaptic nerve terminals. Also has anticholinergic, antihistaminic, and alpha-adrenergic blocking properties. Used for behavior disorders, neuropathic pain, and feline idiopathic cystitis.

›What is Amitriptyline used for in pets?

Amitriptyline is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for separation anxiety, noise phobias, compulsive behaviors, and neuropathi; Used for feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), inappropriate elimination, psychogeni.

›What is the Amitriptyline dose for dogs?

For dogs, Amitriptyline is typically dosed as follows — Used for separation anxiety, noise phobias, compulsive behaviors, and neuropathi: 1–2 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Amitriptyline dose for cats?

For cats, Amitriptyline is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), inappropriate elimination, psychogeni: 0.5–1 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Amitriptyline need a prescription?

Yes. Amitriptyline is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only