Nortriptyline Oral Capsule

Nortriptyline oral capsule is a prescription drug that’s available as the brand-name drug Pamelor. It’s also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name version. Nortriptyline is also available as an oral solution.

Why it's used

Nortriptyline is used to treat depression.

Nortriptyline may be used as part of a combination therapy. This means you may need to take it with other medications.

How it works

Nortriptyline belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions.

Nortriptyline works on your central nervous system to increase the level of certain chemicals in your brain and improve your depression.

Nortriptyline oral capsule may cause drowsiness. It may also cause other side effects.

More common side effects

Some of the side effects that can occur with use of nortriptyline include:

• low blood pressure
• high blood pressure
• confusion (mainly in seniors)
• sleep problems
• shakiness
• dry mouth
• blurry vision
• constipation
• skin rash
• hives
• itching
• skin sensitivity to light
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• stomach cramps
• decreased sexual desire
• unexpected weight loss or gain
• sweating
• drowsiness and headache

If these effects are mild, they may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency. Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:

• Psychiatric problems. Symptoms can include:
  • suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • depression
  • anxiety
  • restlessness
  • panic attacks
  • sleep problems
  • changes in behavior
  • rapid speech and increased activity (signs of mania)
• Fast heart rate
• Heart attack. Symptoms can include:
  • chest pain
  • shortness of breath
  • pain or pressure in your upper body
• Stroke. Symptoms can include:
  • weakness in one part or side of your body
  • slurred speech or trouble speaking
• Inability to urinate
• Seizures
• Drowsiness
• Serotonin syndrome. Symptoms can include:
  • hallucinations
  • agitation
  • delusions
  • changes in blood pressure level
  • fast heart rate
  • loss of consciousness
  • sweating
  • muscle tremors or stiff muscles
  • shakiness
  • nausea and vomiting
• Increased eye pressure. Symptoms can include:
  • eye pain
  • swelling and redness near your eyes
  • changes in vision

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare provider who knows your medical history.

Keep these considerations in mind if your doctor prescribes nortriptyline oral capsules for you.

General

• You can take nortriptyline with or without food.
• You can’t cut or crush the capsule.

Storage

• Store nortriptyline at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
• Store the medication with a child-resistant top.
• Don’t store the capsules in moist or damp areas, such as bathrooms.

Travel

When traveling with your medication:

• Always carry your medication with you. When flying, never put it into a checked bag. Keep it in your carry-on bag.
• Don’t worry about airport x-ray machines. They can’t hurt your medication.
• You may need to show airport staff the pharmacy label for your medication. Always carry the original prescription-labeled box with you.
• Don’t put this medication in your car’s glove compartment or leave it in the car. Be sure to avoid doing this when the weather is very hot or very cold.

Clinical monitoring

Your doctor will monitor you for side effects of nortriptyline. Some other monitoring tests your doctor might want to perform include:

• Tests to check your blood levels of nortriptyline if you’re taking more than 100 mg per day
• Tests to monitor you for serotonin syndrome
• Tests to assess your symptoms of depression

Sun sensitivity

This drug may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Be sure to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing to prevent sunburn.

Refills

A prescription for this drug is refillable. You shouldn’t need a new prescription for this drug to be refilled. Your doctor will write the number of refills authorized on your prescription.