Aventyl (Nortriptyline)

Indications

Aventyl is an antidepressant medication used in the treatment of depression. It contains an active ingredient called Nortriptyline. Nortriptyline belongs to the group of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants. It works in the central nervous system to elevate the mood of people with depression. It works by changing the balance of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which affect mood and emotions.

Aventyl is used to treat depression and may also be prescribed for other conditions like chronic pain, and anxiety disorders, or to help people quit smoking. It can be used to help manage and control the symptoms associated with depression, such as sadness, feelings of worthlessness, poor appetite, and difficulty sleeping.

Uses and Dosage

Aventyl is a medication that comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth as prescribed by your doctor, usually between 1 to 4 times daily. Your medical condition and response to treatment will determine the accurate dosage, and to reduce the risk of side effects like dry mouth and dizziness, your doctor may direct you to start with a low dose and gradually increase it.

Take Aventyl regularly to get the maximum benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not alter your dose, frequency, or duration of use without consulting your doctor, as your condition may not improve faster, and your risk of side effects may increase.

The recommended adult dose ranges from 30 mg to 150 mg daily in divided doses. The usual adult starting dose is 25 mg 3 or 4 times daily. The dosage can be increased until the desired effect is achieved.

Side effect

Common Side Effects of Aventyl (Nortriptyline):

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Weight changes

Serious Side Effects of Aventyl (Nortriptyline):

• Breast tenderness
• Eye swelling
• Fainting
• High blood sugar levels
• Irregular heartbeat
• Low sex drive
• Mask-like facial expression
• Muscle spasm
• Persistent heartburn
• Seizures
• Severe abdominal pain
• Severe dizziness
• Shaking
• Signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, hallucination, loss of coordination, fast heartbeat, twitching muscles, unexplained fever)
• Vision changes
• Widened pupils

Form and Strength

Aventyl (Nortriptyline) is available in the following forms and strength:

Nortriptyline: Tablet

• 25mg

Caution

• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially in children, teenagers, and young adults.
• Risk of serotonin syndrome when used in combination with other medications that increase serotonin levels.
• Risk of cardiac side effects like arrhythmia or heart block, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions.
• Risk of liver damage or worsened liver function, especially in patients with liver disease.
• Risk of seizure if the recommended dosage is exceeded, or in patients with a history of seizures or epilepsy.
• Risk of glaucoma and raised intraocular pressure.
• May interact with other medications, inform your doctor of any other medications, or supplements you are taking before starting Aventyl.
• Risk of urinary retention, especially in men with prostate enlargement.
• Risk of hypotension, particularly in patients with low blood pressure.
• Risk of hyperpyrexia or high fever, especially when taken with drugs that affect thermoregulation.
• Risk of exacerbating existing psychiatric conditions like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
• Aventyl may impair cognitive and motor functions, so it's important to avoid activities like driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Risk of worsening glaucoma, particularly in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Risk of drug dependence or addiction, particularly in patients with a history of substance abuse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does Aventyl take to start working for depression?

Aventyl can take several weeks to start working and for the full effects to be noticed. You should continue taking the medication as prescribed by your doctor, even if you do not feel any immediate improvement.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Aventyl?

If you miss a dose of Aventyl, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Can Aventyl be used for other conditions besides depression?

Yes, in some cases, Aventyl may be prescribed for other conditions like chronic pain or migraine headaches. However, this use should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.

How many hours does nortriptyline last?

Nortriptyline's half-life varies widely, with it generally having a half-life of anywhere between 16-90 hours.

Resources

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/nortriptyline-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071998?p=1
• https://reference.medscape.com/drug/pamelor-nortriptyline-342944
• https://www.drugs.com/cdi/aventyl.html
• https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/aventyl
• https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/aventyl
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6172/aventyl-oral/details