Description

Pamelor (Nortriptyline) – Patient Guide

What it’s for

Pamelor is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression. It works by balancing brain chemicals that affect mood.
Doctors may also prescribe it for other conditions not listed here.

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How to Take

• Take exactly as prescribed. Do not change your dose without medical advice.
• It may take a few weeks before you start to feel better—keep taking it as directed.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip it—never double up.
• If you take it once daily at bedtime, skip the missed dose if you remember the next morning.
• Tell your doctor if you are having surgery—your dose may need adjusting.
• Do not stop suddenly—your doctor will help you taper off safely.

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Storage

• Store at 59–77°F (15–25°C).
• Keep away from heat, moisture, and light.
• Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

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Safety Information

Do not take if you:

• Are allergic to nortriptyline.
• Recently had a heart attack.
• Used an MAOI (like Nardil, Parnate, Marplan, Eldepryl, Azilect, or Emsam) in the last 14 days.

Tell your doctor if you have:

• Heart disease, stroke history, or seizures
• Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other mental illness
• Diabetes (can raise or lower blood sugar)
• Overactive thyroid
• Glaucoma
• Trouble urinating

⚠️ Important Warnings

• May increase risk of suicidal thoughts, especially under age 24. You and your family should watch for mood changes, especially when starting or changing your dose.
• Use caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding – ask your doctor.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects.
• Not usually recommended for children under 18.

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Precautions

• Avoid alcohol—dangerous side effects possible.
• Avoid other sedating medicines (sleep aids, painkillers, seizure meds, muscle relaxers) unless your doctor says otherwise.
• Grapefruit juice may interact—check with your doctor before using.
• Can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or poor concentration—be careful with driving or machinery.
• Makes your skin more sensitive to the sun—use sunscreen and protective clothing.

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Possible Side Effects

Seek emergency help if you have:

• Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, trouble breathing)
• Chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat
• Stroke-like symptoms (weakness, vision/speech changes, severe headache)
• Seizures or hallucinations
• Severe confusion, fainting, or trouble urinating
• Easy bruising or unusual bleeding

Common, usually mild:

• Nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea
• Dry mouth, odd taste
• Headache, blurred vision, ringing in ears
• Weight changes, sweating
• Tiredness, weakness, or poor coordination
• Skin rash
• Breast swelling (men or women)

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✅ Always take Pamelor exactly as prescribed.
❌ Do not stop suddenly, share your medication, or mix with alcohol.