Local Anaesthetic Effects of Transcutaneous Amitriptyline

The aim of this study is to assess the local anaesthetic effects of amitriptyline applied on the skin of human volunteers, considering the differential effects on mechanic and thermic sensitivity, the local and general tolerance, and the systemic absorption of the drug. The solution used for dilution of amitriptyline is the only one known to allow transcutaneous absorption of the drug \[1\]. Considering that the peripheral sensitive fibre is a possible site of action of tricyclic antidepressants for relieving neuropathic pain \[2,3\], this is a first step study before further assessment of the therapeutic effects of transcutaneous amitriptyline.