Nortriptyline: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and Interactions
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Siva Anoop Yella, Psychiatry
Nortriptyline is a prescribed antidepressant that helps balance brain chemicals to improve mood and manage depression symptoms effectively. The oral capsules are available in both the form generic and brand name drug which is called as Pamelor.
This medicine is widely used to manage depression and also helps with anxiety and energy levels in some patients.
Nortriptyline tablets may also be prescribed for other conditions, depending on the doctor's evaluation.
This medicine helps regulate the activity of mood-related brain chemicals like norepinephrine, which are often imbalanced in depression.
Follow the doctor's instructions on dosage carefully, using a measuring device for liquids.
Contact your doctor if you do not feel better or have questions about your dosage.
Missing one or two doses typically does not affect treatment, but consistency is important in antidepressant therapy.
Accidental overdose can be harmful; seek immediate medical attention if you've taken more than prescribed.
Certain actions or substances can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the drug's effectiveness.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionSide effects can range from mild to severe. Report anything unusual to your doctor right away.
Seek immediate medical attention for serious symptoms.
Before starting treatment, let your doctor know about your full medical history and any current conditions.
This medicine may not be suitable for children or older adults without close monitoring.
Food and Alcohol Interactions with Nortriptyline
What you eat or drink can affect how well this medication works or increase the risk of side effects.
Some medications can interfere with Nortriptyline and increase the risk of side effects or complications.
Proper storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication.
| Nortriptyline | Amitriptyline |
|---|---|
| Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant. The medication affects the chemicals in the brain which can be unbalanced in people with depression. Nortriptyline tablets are used for preventing depression. | Amitriptyline is a drug primarily used to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders, marketed under the brand name Elavil, among others. These include major depressive and anxiety disorders, as well as attention deficit hyperactivity and bipolar disorder, which are less common. |
| Nortriptyline tablets are mainly used for treating depression. Nortriptyline can be taken as a combination therapy with other medications. This may help in improving the mood and feelings of well being, relieve anxiety and tension also the medication helps in increasing the energy level. | To treat mood disorders such as depression, this drug is used. It helps to boost the feelings of well-being and mood, reduce anxiety and stress, help you sleep better, and increase your energy level. This drug belongs to a class of medicines which is known as tricyclic antidepressants. |
Some of the serious side effects of Nortriptyline are:
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Some of the common side effects of Amitriptyline are:
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040-68334455Nortriptyline can potentially cause liver problems, although this is rare. It is important to inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease before starting nortriptyline. Regular monitoring of liver function may be recommended to ensure the medication does not adversely affect your liver.
Nortriptyline can affect heart rhythm and increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, such as irregular heartbeat or heart attack, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. If you have a history of heart problems or are recovering from a recent heart attack, it is crucial to discuss these conditions with your doctor before taking nortriptyline.
Nortriptyline may take 2–4 weeks to show noticeable improvement in anxiety symptoms. Full benefits may take up to 6 weeks.
Both are effective. Nortriptyline often causes fewer side effects and may be better tolerated, but the best choice varies by individual response.
Yes, low doses of Nortriptyline are sometimes used to manage IBS or chronic gastrointestinal pain by calming nerve signals in the gut.
Yes, they are sometimes prescribed together for nerve pain or mood disorders. However, they should be used under close medical supervision.
Gabapentin and Nortriptyline tablets are commonly used together to treat nerve pain (neuropathic pain), especially in conditions like diabetes, shingles, or sciatica. Gabapentin calms overactive nerves, while Nortriptyline helps improve pain tolerance and sleep.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.