Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) you’ll see prescribed for depression, nerve pain, and migraine prevention. It works by changing levels of certain brain chemicals to improve mood and reduce pain signals. If your doctor suggested nortriptyline, you probably want straight answers — how fast it works, what to watch for, and how to stay safe. This page gives practical, no-nonsense info so you know what to expect.
Doctors start nortriptyline low and slow. Common starting doses are 25 mg once a day, usually at bedtime, then increased every few days or weeks based on response and side effects. Effective daily doses often fall between 50–150 mg, but some people are managed on less. For nerve pain or migraines, doctors often use lower doses than for major depression. Expect 2–4 weeks before mood or pain benefits appear; full effect can take up to 6–8 weeks.
Older adults and people with heart problems need lower doses. Your prescriber may request an ECG before and during treatment if you have cardiac risk factors, because TCAs can affect heart rhythm.
Common side effects are dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, blurred vision, and lightheadedness when standing up. Those are mostly due to nortriptyline’s anticholinergic and sedating effects. Less common but serious issues include fast or irregular heartbeat, severe low blood pressure, seizures, and worsening mood or suicidal thoughts in some people. Always tell your prescriber about a history of heart disease, seizures, or bipolar disorder.
Drug interactions matter. Avoid MAO inhibitors, and use caution with SSRIs, some antipsychotics, antihistamines, strong pain medicines, and alcohol. Combining certain drugs can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome or dangerous heart rhythm changes. Don’t stop nortriptyline suddenly — withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and flu-like feelings can happen. Your doctor will guide a gradual taper if you need to stop.
Want to buy nortriptyline online? Only use a licensed pharmacy and never skip a prescription. Look for clear contact info, pharmacy licensing, a requirement for a prescription, and secure payment. Be wary of very low prices, no-prescription offers, or unclear packaging. Check the pill markings, expiry, and manufacturer when you get the medicine, and report concerns to your prescriber.
Questions to ask your doctor: Is nortriptyline the best option for my problem? What dose should I start with? Do I need heart tests or blood checks? How long should I stay on it? If you want related reading, our site has practical guides about buying antidepressants online and comparisons with other options like trazodone or newer antidepressants.
Remember: this is practical information, not personal medical advice. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how nortriptyline fits your health picture before starting or changing treatment.
