The prescription drug nortriptyline hydrochloride (
Pamelor®) offers many benefits for people
dealing with depression (also called major
depression and clinical depression). This condition is characterized by several symptoms, most notably pain, suicidal thoughts, and feelings of worthlessness and helplessness. Nortriptyline is believed to work by affecting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, which helps improve depression symptoms.
Not everyone can benefit from nortriptyline, however. For example, people who have certain medical conditions, such as
schizophrenia,
glaucoma,
diabetes, or
heart disease, may need a different treatment approach. In addition, side effects are possible with this drug, which some people may find intolerable, such as weight gain,
impotence, or an allergic reaction.
Prior to taking this medicine, make sure your healthcare provider has your complete medical history, including any nonprescription products or supplements you are taking, as interactions with nortriptyline are possible.
(Click Nortriptyline to learn more about the benefits this drug offers. This article explores in more detail how this product works, what else you should tell your healthcare provider, and what to do in cases of overdose.)