Nortriptyline
Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder and other conditions such as neuropathic pain, migraine prevention, and certain anxiety disorders. It works by increasing levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, helping to improve mood and reduce pain signals. This medication is typically prescribed when other antidepressants have not been effective.
Nortriptyline is an older tricyclic antidepressant that treats depression and nerve-related pain by increasing brain chemicals that regulate mood and pain perception.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06AA10
- RxNorm
- 7531
- Generic
- Nortriptyline
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- Pamelor
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, capsule, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Nortriptyline is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder. It is also prescribed off-label for neuropathic pain conditions (such as diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia), migraine prevention, tension headaches, and nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) in children.
Nortriptyline belongs to the tricyclic antidepressant class. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, increasing their availability in synaptic spaces. This action helps restore chemical balance and improves mood and pain regulation.
Nortriptyline may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, and blurred vision. It can affect heart rhythm and should be used with caution in patients with cardiac conditions. Alcohol should be avoided during treatment. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly without medical supervision, as withdrawal symptoms may occur. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important during treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy