Benefits of amitriptyline in relation to interstitial cystitis

Abstract

Introduction: interstitial cystitis is a clinical syndrome characterized by increased urinary frequency and pelvic pain, primarily affecting women. Two phenotypes of this disease have been identified, each with a different mechanism. Proper diagnosis is essential, as it can be confused with a urinary tract infection. Amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, has shown benefits in the treatment of interstitial cystitis by acting on symptoms and improving patients' quality of life. Its mechanism of action includes blocking the reuptake of neurotransmitters associated with pain.Objectives: the main objective of this study is to review the main benefits of amitriptyline in relation to interstitial cystitis, analyzing its efficacy and safety.Methods: a literature review was conducted using the Prisma method. Clinical trials and systematic reviews addressing the benefits of amitriptyline in patients with interstitial cystitis were included.Results: after selecting 15 relevant articles, it was found that amitriptyline can reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients with interstitial cystitis. Additionally, a significant improvement was observed in patients treated with amitriptyline compared to other treatments. Amitriptyline demonstrated an anti-inflammatory, nervous system modulating, and urodynamic effect in patients with interstitial cystitis.Conclusions: amitriptyline may be an effective and safe option in the treatment of interstitial cystitis, improving symptoms and quality of life for patients. It is suggested that this drug may act as a neuromodulator, anti-inflammatory, and urodynamic agent in patients with interstitial cystitis