Nortriptyline Side Effects

As with any medication, there are possible side effects of nortriptyline. Dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion are common side effects that have been reported with this drug. Most people, however, tolerate the medication well and, in many cases, the side effects are minor and may easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. If you experience more serious nortriptyline side effects, such as a fast heart rate, seizures, and suicidal thoughts, be sure to report them immediately to your healthcare provider.

Nortriptyline HCl

Nortriptyline Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with nortriptyline hydrochloride (Pamelor^®). However, not everyone who takes nortriptyline will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. When people do develop nortriptyline side effects, in many cases they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.

(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with nortriptyline. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of nortriptyline side effects with you.)

Common Nortriptyline Side Effects

Nortriptyline has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine.

As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.

In these studies, the common side effects of nortriptyline include:

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Drowsiness
Confusion
Constipation
Difficulty urinating
Dry mouth (see Nortriptyline and Dry Mouth)
Weight gain or weight loss (see Nortriptyline and Weight Gain)
Erectile dysfunction (ED or impotence) or changes in libido (sex drive) (see Nortriptyline Sexual Side Effects for more information)
Changes in blood sugar levels
Increased sweating.

Withdrawal side effects have been reported in people who have stopped taking nortriptyline suddenly. These side effects of nortriptyline withdrawal include nausea, headaches, and a general ill feeling (see Pamelor Withdrawal).

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