What is this medication for?
Nortriptyline belongs to the group of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants. It is used to treat depression. It works by affecting the balance of chemicals in the brain.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Aventyl Hydrochloride® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual adult starting dose is 25 mg 3 or 4 times daily. The dosage can be increased until the desired effect is achieved. A total daily dose exceeding 150 mg per day is not recommended.
The recommended dose for adolescents and seniors is 30 mg to 50 mg per day taken as a single dose or in divided doses.
This medication can be taken with or without food. Once the correct dose has been established, maintenance doses may be given once daily.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you:
- are allergic to nortriptyline or any ingredients of the medication
- are allergic to similar medications (dibenzazepines)
- are taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) over the past 14 days
- have recently had a heart attack