How long til Elavil starts to work?
 

Doc gave me a prescription for Elavil for daily headaches (not migraine). Said to take 25 mg for two weeks and if not helping, then take 50 mg.

I started with 1/2 a 25 mg pill for a few days and now have been taking a whole pill for several days. Still feeling headaches.

I wondered if this took a while to "kick in." I know when you take it for depression, they say it can take up to 30 days to be fully effective. Didn't know if it was the same with headaches or if you should notice it right away.

Re: How long til Elavil starts to work?
 

For pain, usual within about one week.

If you havent had a response after 10 days of 25mg, I would push it to 50mg.

Note, for non migraine headaches, nortryptiline is as effective as amitriptyline, with fewer side effects.

Re: How long til Elavil starts to work?
 

Jono, thanks for the reply. You said nortriptylene (Pamelor?) is more effective on non-migraine headaches. Where did you find this info?

Re: How long til Elavil starts to work?
 

Not more effective, but as effective, while causing less sedation, dry mouth, weight gain etc