About nortriptyline
Tricyclic antidepressant
Used for
- Depression
- Nerve pain
- Migraine prevention
Usual adult dose
Depression: usually 25 mg three or four times daily, or 75–100 mg once daily. Nerve pain: often starts at 10–25 mg nightly and is adjusted gradually.
Usual dose in children
Not routinely used in children; specialist dosing depends on age and indication.
Common side effects
- Dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision
- Sleepiness, dizziness
- Fast heartbeat or low blood pressure on standing
- Weight gain or difficulty urinating
Important warnings
- May increase suicidal thoughts, especially early in treatment or after dose changes.
- Do not stop suddenly; withdrawal symptoms can occur.
- Can affect heart rhythm; overdose can be dangerous.
- Use caution with glaucoma, urinary retention, seizures, or bipolar disorder.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically needed; discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Nortriptyline generally produces low milk levels; monitor infants for unusual sleepiness or poor feeding.
Interactions
- MAO inhibitors: dangerous reactions; avoid concurrent use.
- Other serotonin-affecting medicines may increase serotonin syndrome risk.
- Alcohol and sedatives can worsen drowsiness.
- Medicines affecting heart rhythm may increase cardiac risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.