(Legend)

Generic Name

• Nortriptyline
  T½ = 18–28 h
  Protein binding = 92%
  Pregnancy category D

Trade Name

• Pamelor
• Aventyl
• Norventyl

Dose Range/Adult Daily Dose

• Range: 75–150 mg/d
  Start: 25 mg po 3–4 × daily up to 150 mg/d

Use/Common Side Effects (CSE)

• Use: Major depressive disorder; Off label: Chronic neurogenic pain, anxiety, insomnia
  CSE: Drowsiness, fatigue, blurred vision, dry eyes/mouth, hypotension, constipation, ARRYTHMIAS

Geriatric & Dose Considerations

• Susceptible to side effects: ↓ Dose: 30–50 mg/d po in divided doses; Caution w BPH, CV disease; Monitor ECGs in elderly.

Classification

• Antidepressant [TCA]

Assessment Cautions

• Contraindicated in narrow-angle glaucoma. Potential fatal reaction with MAOIs. Monitor ECGs w heart disease.