Pamelor - Comprehensive Usage Guide: instructions, indications, composition, side effects

• Active Ingredient: Nortriptyline hydrochloride
• Excipients: May include lactose, magnesium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, and other inactive ingredients depending on the formulation.

Tablets: Available in various strengths, including 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, and 75 mg tablets.

Pamelor belongs to the pharmacological group of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) used for the treatment of depressive disorders (ATC code: N06AA10).

• Pharmacodynamics: Nortriptyline inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the central nervous system, leading to increased neurotransmitter levels. This mechanism is believed to contribute to its antidepressant effects.
• Pharmacokinetics: Nortriptyline is well-absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations achieved within 4 to 8 hours. It undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism and has an elimination half-life of approximately 16 to 90 hours.

Pamelor is indicated for the treatment of:

• Major depressive disorder
• Bedwetting (enuresis) in children aged 6 years and older (off-label use)

Pamelor is contraindicated in individuals with:

• Hypersensitivity to nortriptyline or any component of the formulation
• Recent myocardial infarction
• Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy

Nortriptyline may interact with various medications, including:

• MAOIs
• Serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs)
• Anticholinergic drugs
• CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)

• Pamelor tablets should be taken orally once daily, usually at bedtime, with or without food.
• The tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken.
• Treatment with Pamelor should be initiated at the lowest effective dose, with dosage adjustments made based on individual response and tolerability.

Pamelor should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, and only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. It is excreted in breast milk, and breastfeeding is not recommended during Pamelor treatment due to the potential for adverse effects in the nursing infant.

• The recommended starting dose of Pamelor for adults is 25 mg to 50 mg once daily.
• Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual response and tolerability, up to a maximum dose of 150 mg per day.

In the event of Pamelor overdose, supportive measures should be initiated, and symptomatic treatment may be necessary. Close monitoring of vital signs is essential.

Common side effects of Pamelor may include:

• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Weight gain

Serious adverse effects such as cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and serotonin syndrome are rare but require immediate medical attention if they occur.

• Pamelor tablets should be stored at room temperature (20-25°C) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture.

These comprehensive instructions provide valuable information on the composition, pharmacological properties, indications, contraindications, interactions, administration, side effects, and storage of Pamelor, facilitating safe and effective treatment of depressive disorders. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.