What it means
An older antidepressant of the tricyclic group. It raises the brain's levels of norepinephrine and serotonin. Besides depression, prescribers use it for long-lasting nerve pain and migraine prevention. Common side effects come from its anticholinergic action: dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, blurred vision, dizziness on standing and sleepiness. An overdose can cause deadly heart rhythm problems.
For the nurse
Like all antidepressants, it carries a boxed warning for suicidal thoughts in children and young adults: watch mood closely in the first weeks and after dose changes. Teach the client to rise slowly, to expect two to four weeks before mood improves, and not to stop suddenly. Older adults are at higher risk of confusion and falls.
At a glance
| Drug class | tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Pamelor, Aventyl |
| Spanish | nortriptilina |
Related terms
anticholinergic
A drug or effect that blocks acetylcholine, a nerve messenger, in parts of the nervous system.
serotonin
A chemical messenger in the brain, gut and blood that helps control mood, sleep, appetite and other functions.