Drug Interactions between amitriptyline / chlordiazepoxide and methadone

Using methadone together with other medications that also cause central nervous system depression such as amitriptyline can lead to serious side effects including profound sedation, respiratory distress, coma, and even death. In addition, using methadone together with amitriptyline may increase the risk of two potentially life-threatening, but uncommon conditions: serotonin syndrome and a change in the electrical activity of your heart called QT prolongation. Immediate medical attention is required if you experience symptoms of either condition such as: nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea; agitation; confusion; fast or irregular heartbeat; sweating; flushing; seizures; hallucinations; blood pressure changes; shaking, stiff muscles, or muscle twitching; dizziness; high body temperature; loss of coordination; lightheadedness; and/or fainting. You might be more susceptible to QT prolongation if you have heart problems, uncontrolled hypothyroidism, or electrolyte disturbances (for example, magnesium or potassium loss due to severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting). Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may already be aware of the risks but has determined that this is the best course of treatment for you, has taken appropriate precautions, and is monitoring you closely for any potential complications (which may involve getting both electrocardiograms and blood tests done). It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Using narcotic pain or cough medications together with other medications that also cause central nervous system depression can lead to serious side effects including profound sedation, respiratory distress, coma, and even death. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring to safely use both medications. Do not drink alcohol or self-medicate with these medications without your doctor's approval, and do not exceed the doses or frequency and duration of use prescribed by your doctor. Also, because these medications may cause dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, and impairment in judgment, reaction speed and motor coordination, you should avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how they affect you. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Using amitriptyline together with chlordiazePOXIDE may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Some people, especially the elderly, may also experience impairment in thinking, judgment, and motor coordination. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with these medications. Also avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medications affect you. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.