I AM A 100% DISABLED VIETNAM VET WITH SEVERAL ISSUES THAT THE VAMC GIVES ME MEDS FOR. ONE THAT THE PAIN MANAGEMENT GROUP RECENTLY GAVE ME IS AMITRIPTYLINE HCL 10MG TAB. WILL IT BE OK TO TAKE ALONG WITH VENLAFAXINE? WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF SOME ONE WERE TO OD ON THIS MED? IF A SMALL CHILD TOOK IT HOW COULD WE KNOW AND WHAT SHOULD BE DONE FOR HIM ON THE WAY TO THE ER? THANKS, TWO CONCERNED GRANDPARENTS
The combination of the two medications is not recommended due to a higher risk of Serotonin syndrome. You can get more information on this syndrome at  Amitryptiline when taken in toxic doses can affect the heart and blood vessels- the biggest risk is that it can cause abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). Other side effects include seizures, low blood pressure, drowsiness or confusion or disorientation. It should be kept out of reach of children. if you suspect a child has taken the medicine, immeidately take him/her to the ER/pediatrician.