In this video we will cover everything you need to know about Nortriptyline, also known as Aventyl. This video is part of a video series on mental health problems. So for more mental health related videos check out this playlist:
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Generic name: Nortriptyline.
Brand names: Pamelor, Aventyl and Nortrilen.
Available as a tablet.
How to use it?
Tablet: Swallow the tablet completely with half a glass of water.
Duration of treatment:
If Nortriptyline has no effect within 6-7 weeks, it is probably not effective for you. Your prescribing doctor will most likely prescribe you another antidepressant. However if you do experience improvements of your symptoms, your doctor will continue your treatment for 6 months up to several years.
When to use it?
Nortriptyline is part of a group of drugs called Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It can be used to treat several mental health conditions:
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Offlabel it can be used for neuropathic pain and it is used as an aid for smoking cessation, in combination with supportive and motivational therapy.
What is the correct dosage?
Unfortunately I can’t provide you with specific dosages, as these differ a lot depending on the specific indication of use, the side effects you experience and the severity of your complaints.
Furthermore, your maintenance dose will be adapted overtime based on the blood levels of Nortriptyline you will be having and your symptoms.
Therefore always use the precise amount and frequency your doctor prescribed you.
However the usual starting dose most doctors prescribing for treating a depression is 25mg 2-3x/day or 50mg 1x/day. If needed you doctor will gradually increase the dose to a maximum of 150mg 1x/day or 50mg 2-3x/day.
What are common the side-effects?
Very common (10%): dry mouth, constipation, palpitations, low blood pressure, weight gain, dizziness, headache, nausea and trembling of the arms or legs.
Common (1-10%): heart abnormalities, taste disturbance, difficulty concentrating, confusion, weight gain, fatigue, decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.
Uncommon (0.1-1%): convulsions, tinnitus, high blood pressure, allergic skin reactions, tongue edema, diarrhea, vomiting, (hypo) mania, anxiety, insomnia and nightmares.
Safety:
You should be careful to combine nortriptyline with alcohol. As this might increase the dazing effect of this drug.
In addition it is usually safe to drive while using nortriptyline, however it can cause you to become drowsy, sleepy and/or dizzy. If you experiencing any of these side effects then please do not drive.
Furthermore, nortriptyline can have interactions with several drugs. Therefore always discuss this with your treating physician.
Pregnancy and Lactation:
Nortriptyline can be dangerous in both cases, however there are some exceptions. Therefore always discuss this with your doctor.
- Disclaimer: this video and the comments are meant purely informational! This is not medical advice! If you are looking for medical advice always contact your own doctor. -
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Literature:
1: Farmacotherapeutisch Kompas. (2020). Nortriptyline.
2: Apotheek.nl (2021). Nortriptyline.
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