Nortriptyline

Nortriptyline works by affecting the balance of certain chemicals in the brain, specifically serotonin and norepinephrine, which are neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.

When prescribed for depression, drug helps alleviate symptoms such as sadness, loss of interest, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness. It is thought to restore the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to an improvement in mood and overall well-being.

Medicine is available in capsule form and is usually taken orally.

How to use

Here are some general guidelines for using Nortriptyline:

1. Timing: Medicine is usually taken orally and can be taken with or without food. Take it at the same time(s) each day to help establish a routine and improve medication effectiveness.
2. Swallowing: Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew the capsule.
3. Duration: Continue taking Nortriptyline for the duration, even if you start feeling better. Suddenly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
4. Avoid alcohol: It is recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Nortriptyline, as it can increase the risk of certain side effects.
5. Do not share medication: Do not share your medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms.

Dosage

The following are general dosage guidelines for Nortriptyline:

1. Starting dosage: The usual starting dose of Nortriptyline for adults is typically 25 to 50 milligrams (mg) taken once daily at bedtime.
2. Titration: The dosage may be increased every few days. The maximum recommended dose for most adults is usually 150 mg per day.
3. Maintenance dosage: Once an effective dosage is determined, it is typically continued for the maintenance phase of treatment. This maintenance dose can vary between 50 and 150 mg per day, depending on your specific needs.
4. Geriatric population: For older adults or those with liver or kidney problems, a lower starting dosage may be recommended, usually around 10 to 30 mg per day.
5. Pediatric population: Medicine is not typically recommended for use in children unless specifically prescribed by a pediatric specialist.

Side effects

It is important to be aware of potential side effects while taking Nortriptyline. Common side effects may include:

1. Dry mouth: This is a common side effect of Nortriptyline. Drinking water, chewing sugarless gum, or using saliva substitutes may help relieve the discomfort.
2. Drowsiness: Medicine can cause drowsiness or sedation. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
3. Constipation: Nortriptyline can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation. Drinking plenty of water, eating high-fiber foods, and staying physically active can help alleviate this side effect.
4. Blurred vision: Antidepressant can cause temporary blurred vision. Avoid activities that require clear vision until your vision returns to normal.
5. Urinary retention: In some cases, Nortriptyline can affect bladder function, leading to difficulty in urination.
6. Weight changes: Nortriptyline may cause weight gain or weight loss in some individuals. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular exercise to minimize these effects.
7. Sexual side effects: Nortriptyline can affect sexual desire, performance, or satisfaction.
8. Other side effects: Less common side effects of Nortriptyline may include increased heart rate, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating, and skin rash.

Storage

When it comes to storing Nortriptyline, it is important to follow the recommended guidelines to maintain its effectiveness and safety. Here are some general storage instructions:

1. Temperature: Store Nortriptyline at room temperature, typically between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Avoid extreme temperatures and do not refrigerate or freeze the medication.
2. Protect from light and moisture: Keep capsules in its original packaging or a tightly closed container to protect it from light and moisture. Avoid exposing the medication to excessive humidity, such as in the bathroom.
3. Away from children and pets: Store medicine in a secure location that is out of the reach of children and pets. Medications should always be stored in a safe place to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.
4. Avoid pill splitting or crushing: Do not split or crush capsules. Store the tablets in their whole form until it is time to take a dose.
5. Proper disposal: If you have expired or unused Nortriptyline, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authorities on the proper disposal method. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so.

Always check the specific storage instructions provided with your medication, as they may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and formulation. If you have any concerns or questions about the storage of Nortriptyline, contact your pharmacist for further guidance.

Overdose

An overdose of this antidepressant can be a serious medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect an overdose or have taken more Nortriptyline than prescribed, please take the following steps:

1. Contact emergency services: Dial emergency services (such as 911 in the United States) or your local emergency number immediately.
2. Inform them about the situation: Clearly explain that you have taken an overdose of Nortriptyline and provide them with any other relevant information they may need.
3. Do not induce vomiting: Unless instructed to do so by a medical professional, do not induce vomiting as a response to the overdose.
4. Follow medical advice: Once you have sought medical help, follow the instructions given by the healthcare professionals. They will guide you on further steps to take, which may include hospitalization for observation and treatment.

It is important to note that an overdose of Nortriptyline can be potentially life-threatening. The symptoms of an overdose may vary but can include severe drowsiness, rapid heartbeat, confusion, hallucinations, difficulty breathing, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Nortriptyline, follow these general guidelines:

1. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember: If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
2. Avoid taking extra doses: Do not take additional doses of Nortriptyline to make up for the missed one.
3. Set a reminder: To help remember your doses, consider setting a reminder alarm, using a pill organizer, or incorporating Nortriptyline into your daily routine at the same time each day.
4. Do not make significant changes: If you miss a dose, continue taking the medication as prescribed.