Drug Name: Nortriptyline
Brand Names: Aventyl, Pamelor
Generic Name: Nortriptyline
Uses: Nortriptyline is used for the treatment of depression and childhood nocturnal enuresis or what is most commonly known as bedwetting. It may also be used to treat chronic pain, panic disorders, premenstrual conditions and skin conditions. Children under 18 should be carefully monitored if prescribed with this drug.
How to use: Nortiptyline comes in capsule and oral liquid forms. It is usually taken 3 to 4 times a day, with or without food. The dosage depends on the condition being treated. Chronic pain only requires a lesser dosage as compared to depression. A dose of 150mg a day is not recommended. Nocturnal enuresis treatment doesn’t last for more than 3 months.
Side Effects: Common side effects of nortriptyline are upset stomach, drowsiness, weakness or tiredness, anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, dry mouth, heat intolerance and changes in appetite and weight. More serious side effects include constipation, frequent and difficulty in urination, blurred vision, excessive sweating and problems in sexual activity. You should notify your doctor about these conditions especially if they become severe and do not go away.
Precautions: If you had a history of cardiovascular disease, stroke and seizures, inform your doctor about this. You may need to be given a close supervision while under the treatment. This also applies to people having thyroid medication. If you or anyone in your family had a history of depression, bipolar disorder or if you are pregnant, are breastfeeding or are planning to get pregnant, you should also notify your doctor about this.
Drug Interaction: Drugs like anticoagulants, antihistamines, antipsychotic, cimetidine, estrogens, MAO inhibitors, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, vitamins and medications for high blood pressure, seizures, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, asthma, nausea, colds and allergies may interact with nortriptyine. Inform your doctor if you are taking any of these medications, including other prescription and non-prescription medicines. These may affect the effectiveness of nortriptyline.
Overdose: Get immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose. Serious cardiac arrhythmias, coma and even death may result from nortriptyline overdose.
Notes: You should continue taking nortriptyline even if you feel well. Stop the medication only if directed by your doctor. The stopping of the medication should not also happen abruptly. Your doctor may gradually reduce your dosage before completely stopping it.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as remembered. If however, it is almost time for the next one, just skip the missed dose and continue to your regular schedule. Never double up your dosage.
Important Note: It is very important to keep all your appointments with your doctor and all your laboratory schedules. Monitoring of your condition is necessary especially for children under 18. Suicidal tendencies are susceptible in children taking nortriptyline for the treatment of depression. Parents should also keep an eye on their child’s behavior and should keep in constant contact with their doctor.
Storage: Nortriptyline should be kept in a tightly closed container and away from moisture and heat. Do not store in inside the bathroom. Store the medicine at room temperature.
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