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Nortriptyline

Brand names: Pamelor

Nortriptyline is an older antidepressant. Low doses are often used for nerve pain and migraine prevention.

Brand namesPamelor
Type of medicineTricyclic antidepressant
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It causes less drowsiness and dizziness than amitriptyline.

What it's used for

  • Depression
  • Off-label: nerve pain, migraine prevention, quitting smoking

How to take it

  • Take it at bedtime if it makes you sleepy.
  • Don't stop suddenly.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness when standing
  • Weight gain
Call 911Thoughts of suicide or harming yourself. Call or text 988 any time.
Call 911Fainting or a fast, irregular heartbeat
Call 911Agitation, fever, sweating, muscle twitching or stiffness, fast heartbeat, and confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)
Call your provider todayTrouble peeing, confusion, or eye pain

Warnings

  • Children, teens, and young adults can have more suicidal thoughts when starting. Watch closely in the first weeks.
  • Overdose is very dangerous to the heart. Keep it away from children and anyone at risk of self-harm.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.
  • Fluoxetine, paroxetine, and bupropion raise its level.
  • Alcohol and sedating medicines add to drowsiness.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

An overdose is an emergency that can quickly affect the heart. Call 911 right away. You can also call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.