Aventyl

Common Name: nortriptyline HCl

How does Aventyl work?

Nortriptyline belongs to the group of medications known as tricylic antidepressants. It is used for the treatment of depression. It works by affecting the balance of chemicals in the brain. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Aventyl?

The recommended adult dose ranges from 30 mg to 150 mg daily in divided doses. The usual adult starting dose is 25 mg three or four times daily. The dosage can be increased until the desired effect is achieved. 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 very important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without first talking with your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Aventyl come in?

Aventyl® is available in strengths of 10 mg and 25 mg. 10 mg: Each capsule with white, opaque body and yellow, opaque cap with Identi-Code "H 17", contains nortriptyline 10 mg. 25 mg: Each capsule with white, opaque body and yellow, opaque cap with Identi-Code "H 19", contains nortriptyline 25 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: butylparaben, benzyl alcohol, D&C Yellow No. 10, dimethicone, edetate calcium disodium, FD&C Yellow No. 6, gelatin, methylparaben, propylparaben, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium propionate, starch, and titanium dioxide. This medication does not contain tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Aventyl?

Nortriptyline HCl should not be used by anyone who: is allergic to nortriptyline, any ingredient of the medication, or other antidepressants in the same family (e.g., amitriptyline, desipramine) takes MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) - MAO inhibitors should be stopped at least 2 weeks before nortriptyline treatment is started has recently had a heart attack

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Aventyl?

Occupational hazards: People who take nortriptyline should avoid driving and operating hazardous machinery until they determine that the medication does not adversely affect their ability to do such activities. Medical conditions: This medication should be used with caution by anyone with: heart disease glaucoma difficulties with urination hyperactive thyroid disease (or those receiving thyroid medication) epilepsy or a history of seizures diabetes (both increases and decreases in blood sugar levels have been noted for people with diabetes who take nortriptyline) Withdrawal: Stopping treatment suddenly after prolonged therapy may produce nausea, headache, and malaise. These symptoms do not mean that you are addicted to the medication. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: The safe use of nortriptyline during pregnancy and breast-feeding has not been established. If you are or may be pregnant, or if you are breast-feeding, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking this medication. Children: Nortriptyline is not recommended for use by children under 12 years of age.