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Child Behavior (Expert Forum)
Is Elavil (amitriptyline) right for my son?
Answered by
Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D. - Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, Crisis Intervention
Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates
This forum is for questions and support regarding child behavior issues such: Child Discipline (behavior management), Normal Child Development, Parent-Child Communications, Social Development
Is Elavil (amitriptyline) right for my son?
by JanieB, Jun 07, 2001 12:00AM
My son is 9 years old. He was put on Ritalin two weeks ago, and Elavil 2 days ago. His teacher has requested the Ritalin, which I will take him off of in 4 more days when school is over (I don't like his behavior when the medication wears off...his pupils are huge and he seems to go from one thing to another without putting much thought into it). I don't give him Ritalin on weekends, and have never seen how he is on Ritalin. His counselor recommended an antidepressent. His father is an alcholic and currently a drug addict (we're divorced)...dad is out of the picture right now. Both of my son's grandparents (my mother, my ex-husband's mother) are manic -depressive. I'm concerned about the long term effects of Elavil, as the information says there could be serious withdrawl from this medication. He can be aggressive at times, but quite often is a sweet little boy. Very smart, good in math, reading, spelling. Both Grandfathers were exceptionally intelligent. Do you have any advice, concerns, warnings...etc... for me? I appreciate your help! Jane
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D., Jun 08, 2001 12:00AM
, Jun 08, 2001 12:00AM
For a nine-year-old, this particular antidepressant is a somewhat unusual choice. However, there can be reasons for prescribing it. It would make sense to seek a second opinion consult for the purpose of reviewing the medication plan.
