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Pamelor Side Effects
Although most people have no problems with Pamelor, side effects are possible, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion. In many cases, these reactions are minor and easily treated. However, there are several side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider, including a fast heart rate, seizures, and suicidal thoughts.
Pamelor Side Effects: An Introduction
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Pamelor® (nortriptyline hydrochloride). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If people do develop 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 Pamelor. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Pamelor side effects with you.)
Common Side Effects of Pamelor
Pamelor 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 Pamelor side effects included:
- 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)
- Changes in blood sugar levels
- Increased sweating.
Signs of withdrawal have been reported in people who have stopped taking Pamelor suddenly. These side effects include nausea, headaches, and a general ill feeling (see Pamelor Withdrawal).
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD