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.

What Are the Uses of Nortriptyline Tablets?

This medicine is widely used to manage depression and also helps with anxiety and energy levels in some patients.

  • Primarily used to treat depression
  • It may help relieve anxiety and boost energy
  • Often prescribed as part of a combination treatment plan
  • Belongs to the tricyclic antidepressant class
  • Works by restoring natural chemical balance in the brain

Secondary Uses of Nortriptyline

Nortriptyline tablets may also be prescribed for other conditions, depending on the doctor's evaluation.

  • Sometimes used to treat chronic pain.
  • It may help with migraine prevention.
  • It can be useful in nerve pain or neuropathic pain management.

How Does Nortriptyline Work (Mechanism of Action)?

This medicine helps regulate the activity of mood-related brain chemicals like norepinephrine, which are often imbalanced in depression.

  • Increases levels of norepinephrine in the brain
  • Enhances communication between nerve cells
  • Reduces symptoms of low mood, anxiety, and tiredness

Nortriptyline Dosage Guidelines

Follow the doctor's instructions on dosage carefully, using a measuring device for liquids.

  • Generic: Capsules available in 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg.
  • Brand (Pamelor): Capsules available in the same strengths.
  • Dosage depends on individual condition and response to treatment
  • Usually taken once or twice daily with or without food

Contact your doctor if you do not feel better or have questions about your dosage.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Nortriptyline?

Missing one or two doses typically does not affect treatment, but consistency is important in antidepressant therapy.

  • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
  • Skip it if it's almost time for the next dose.
  • Don't double up.
  • Inform your doctor if you miss multiple doses.

What Happens If I Take an Overdose of Nortriptyline?

Accidental overdose can be harmful; seek immediate medical attention if you've taken more than prescribed.

  • Symptoms: Confusion, irregular heartbeat, seizures, fainting
  • May cause severe drowsiness, hallucinations, or coma

What to Avoid While Taking Nortriptyline

Certain actions or substances can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the drug's effectiveness.

  • Avoid alcohol, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness
  • Limit intake of grapefruit or grapefruit juice
  • Be cautious when driving or operating machinery

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

What Are the Side Effects of Nortriptyline Tablets?

Side effects can range from mild to severe. Report anything unusual to your doctor right away.

Common Side Effects of Nortriptyline

Serious Side Effects of Nortriptyline

  • Blurred vision or tunnel vision, eye pain
  • Swelling, fever or sore throat
  • Seizures, chest pain, irregular heartbeats
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Painful or difficult urination
  • Muscle movements
  • Light-headed feeling

Seek immediate medical attention for serious symptoms.

Precautions for Nortriptyline

Before starting treatment, let your doctor know about your full medical history and any current conditions.

  • Discuss allergies or other medications with your doctor.
  • Notify your doctor if you have conditions like breathing problems, liver issues, heart disease, glaucoma, bipolar disorder, or thyroid problems.
  • Nortriptyline can affect heart rhythm (QT prolongation), risk increases with certain medical conditions or medications.
  • Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice

Warnings for Serious Health Conditions

  • For cardiovascular disorders: Increased risk of stroke and irregular heartbeat; avoid recovering from a recent heart attack.
  • For bipolar disorder: Ensure bipolar disorder is treated before starting Nortriptyline.
  • For glaucoma or increased eye pressure: Monitor closely while taking Nortriptyline.
  • For urinary retention or hyperthyroidism: Increased risk of complications; monitor closely.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Nortriptyline?

This medicine may not be suitable for children or older adults without close monitoring.

  • Not typically recommended for children under 18
  • Elderly patients may require lower doses to reduce side effects

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.

  • Avoid alcoholic beverages
  • Discuss any special dietary needs or restrictions with your doctor

Possible Drug Interactions with Nortriptyline

Some medications can interfere with Nortriptyline and increase the risk of side effects or complications.

  • Avoid combining with MAO inhibitors (e.g., isocarboxazid, phenelzine)
  • Caution with blood thinners, heart medications, seizure drugs
  • Tell your doctor about all prescriptions, supplements, and herbal products

How Should Nortriptyline Be Stored?

Proper storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication.

  • Store at room temperature (68ºF to 77ºF).
  • Keep away from heat, light, and moisture.
  • keep out of reach of children.
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near direct sunlight

Nortriptyline vs Amitriptyline

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:
  • Blurred vision
  • Tunnel vision
  • Eye pain
  • Swelling
  • Muscle movements
  • Light headed feeling
  • Seizure
  • Chest pain
  • Irregular heartbeats
Some of the common side effects of Amitriptyline are:
  • Blurred vision
  • Tunnel vision
  • Eye pain
  • Swelling
  • Muscle movements
  • Light headed feeling
  • Seizure
  • Chest pain
  • Irregular heartbeats

References

A placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial of nortriptyline for chronic low back pain
Nortriptyline: MedlinePlus Drug Information
Book Doctor Appointment
Book Free Appointment

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

Nortriptyline 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.

Book Appointment Second Opinion WhatsApp Health Packages Find Doctors

Feeling unwell?

Request a callback!