Amitriptyline hydrochloride (Elavil) is frequently used in treating mild to moderate depressive
states. A survey of 346 persons enrolled in a methadone maintenance program showed that
86 (25%) had admitted taking amitriptyline with the purpose of achieving euphoria. Thin-
layer chromatography of random urine specimens over five months showed that 34% of the
patients had a positive result for amitriptyline at least once during this time. These results
suggest that misuse of amitriptyline is not uncommon and should be carefully considered …