A 45-year-old patient with a history of overdose is prescribed amitriptyline 50 mg at night for neuropathic pain. The prescription is for 3 months'

Question

A 45-year-old patient with a history of overdose is prescribed amitriptyline 50 mg at night for neuropathic pain. The prescription is for 3 months' supply. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Contact the prescriber to consider smaller quantities or an alternative

Answer

Add a sedating antihistamine to reduce overdose risk

Answer

Recommend taking the whole supply at bedtime for sleep

Answer

Dispense because amitriptyline is safe in overdose

Answer

Advise OTC codeine instead for long-term use

Amitriptyline overdose risk — GPhC CRA MCQ

A 45-year-old patient with a history of overdose is prescribed amitriptyline 50 mg at night for neuropathic pain. The prescription is for 3 months' supply. What is the most appropriate action?