Uses

Pamelor (nortriptyline) is a second-generation tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). TCAs are named for their three-ringed chemical structure. Pamelor is used in the treatment of major depression and childhood nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting). It is also used for chronic illnesses such as chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic pain, migraine, and labile affect in some neurological conditions. However, the use of tricyclic antidepressants has greatly decreased due to the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

How Does Pamelor Work?

Pamelor inhibits the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin at the neuronal membrane or acts at beta-adrenergic receptors. This drug does not inhibit monoamine oxidase nor does it affect dopamine reuptake.

Pamelor, the N-demethylated active metabolite of amitriptyline, is a dibenzocycloheptene-derivative tricyclic antidepressant. TCAs are similar in structure to phenothiazines.

Dosage FAQs

• What is a normal dose of this medication?
  • Depression: Depending on your doctor’s guidance, 25 mg to 150 mg per day should be taken orally in divided doses or as a single dose at bed time. In people over the age of 65, the dose can range between 10 mg to 75 mg per day, in divided doses or as a single dose at bedtime.
  • Nocturnal enuresis: Although this drug is not recommended for children under the age of 13, it may be prescribed for excessive bedwetting in some cases by your doctor. In general, the recommended dose for children under 13 will be between 10 mg and 35 mg per day, depending on the child’s body weight.
• Is it safe to use this drug if I am pregnant or become pregnant?
  Although no conclusive studies have been performed on human pregnancies, all risks should be thoroughly weighed against their potential benefits when prescribing this drug to those who become pregnant or those who are pregnant. Small amounts of nortriptyline may be excreted into a nursing mother’s breast milk. The American Academy of Pediatrics classifies it as a drug whose effect is unknown, but may be of concern.
• Are there ways to get more out of my treatment with this drug?
  Depression, one of the conditions for which this drug is primarily prescribed, has also shown positive results for many when treated with psychotherapy. While this drug may help dull or remove some of the debilitating symptoms of depression, it cannot teach you more about what you are experiencing or help you develop healthy coping strategies should symptoms arise or become triggered. For a better, longer-lasting mental health outcome, consider finding a therapist or counselor to complement your treatment with medication.
• How is this drug processed in my body?
  Pamelor is well-absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. About 45% of this medication is metabolized in the liver and it has a half-life of 36 hours. 65% of this drug is excreted in an individual’s urine.
• What are some off-label uses for this drug?
  Off-label use refers to conditions for which a doctor might prescribe this medication that are not part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved packaging label. This is a normal practice and for this medication includes the following applications:
  • Chronic urticaria (chronic hives)
  • Nocturnal pruritus (nighttime itch)
  • Angioedema (rapid swelling of the skin)
  • Smoking cessation
  • Attention-deficit hyperactivity (ADHD)
  • Postherpetic neuralgia