Nortriptyline, sold under the brand names Pamelor and Aventyl HCL, is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as tricyclic antidepressants, according to Drugs.com. It is used to treat depression by balancing the chemicals in the brain. Nortriptyline is available in liquid or capsule form and should be taken as your doctor prescribes. If you are taking nortriptyline, you should be aware of its many side effects.
Psychiatric Side Effects
According to RxList.com, nortriptyline can affect your state of mind and lead to anxiety, restlessness, agitation and panic. You may also experience nightmares, confusion, hallucinations and hypomania (a condition characterized by an elevated mood and decreased need for sleep). Trouble sleeping, hostility and suicidal behaviors or thoughts are other psychiatric side effects. Notify your doctor if these symptoms exist and she may change the dosage of your medication.
Serious Side Effects
Nortriptyline may cause serious side effects that make immediate medical help necessary. Users may experience tachycardia (fast heartbeat), arrythmias (irregular heartbeat), chest pain, decreased urination and sudden headache. Lightheadedness, fainting, involuntary muscle movements, convulsions, tremors and extreme thirst are other serious side effects of nortriptyline.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
According to RxList.com, nortriptyline can harm your digestive system (intestines and stomach) and cause nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhea. You may also develop a black tongue and have changes in your sense of taste.
Overdose
If you take more nortriptyline than your doctor instructed, you may develop confusion, drowsiness, vomiting, agitation and hallucinations, according to Drugs.com. You can also develop convulsions, muscle stiffness and even coma. Seek immediate medical help if you have these symptoms.
Other Physical Side Effects
Nortriptyline can also cause hypotension (low blood pressure), hypertension (high blood pressure), heart attack, stroke, numbness, tingling and tinnitus (ringing in the ears), according to RxList.com. You may also experience dry mouth, constipation, a skin rash, low platelet count (substance responsible for wound healing) and gynecomastia (development of male breasts). Decreased libido, changes in your blood sugar levels and yellowing of the skin or eyes are other physical side effects of nortriptyline.
Allergic Reaction
According to Drugs.com, nortriptyline may lead to an allergic reaction. These signs include trouble breathing, red itchy swellings on your skin and puffiness of your face, throat and lips. Seek immediate help if you develop these symptoms.
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