Aventyl (Nortriptyline) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Aventyl Uses

Aventyl, with the generic name nortriptyline hydrochloride, is an oral medication indicated to treat depression. It helps improve feelings of well-being, energy level, and mood. It also aids in the relief of anxiety and stress.

This is available in Aventyl 25 mg and 10 mg capsule forms.

How does Aventyl work?

This tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin through the presynaptic neuronal membrane, which increases neurotransmitters concentration in the synapse. Aventyl improves the pressor effect of norepinephrine but impedes the pressor response of phenethylamine. Generally, Aventyl helps maintain the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

How to use Aventyl

To begin, read the medication information sheet included with this medicine. Do not use this antidepressant if you have not fully understood the drug information and warning printed in the guide. In case you need additional medical advice or have queries regarding the use of this drug, you may ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this capsule orally. This is usually prescribed once to four times daily. You may take it with or without a meal or as directed by the physician. Swallow the oral drug and drink a glass of water thereafter. Do not split or chew Aventyl.

Remember to take this prescription drug regularly and exactly as directed. Make a dosing regimen to avoid missing a dose. Do not change your frequency or dosage as it depends on your medical condition and response to treatment. Furthermore, do not stop taking Aventyl abruptly as it could lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, tiredness, sleep changes, and mood swings.

Aventyl Side Effects

Common side effects:

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

In most cases, the side effects caused by this prescription medication are mild and temporary. If the adverse reactions get worse or persist over time, you must hold medication for a while and contact your doctor or any healthcare professionals. In addition, you must report severe side effects, including:

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

This is not a full or complete list of Aventyl’s side effects.

Precautions

Before starting to use this oral drug, you must fully disclose your entire medical history to your doctor. This includes any history of hyperthyroidism, enlarged prostate, liver disease, breathing problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, glaucoma, seizures, and mental or mood conditions.

Some diseases or conditions may impact how your body will respond to this treatment. Moreover, you should talk about prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products (like St. John’s wort) that you are taking because of possible drug interactions.

Always watch out for an allergic reaction while taking this TCA. Avoid this oral drug if you have a known allergy to nortriptyline, amitriptyline, other TCAs, or any inactive ingredients each capsule may contain. Signs of hypersensitivity are breathing trouble, severe dizziness, swelling of the face and neck, hives, and skin rashes. If this occurs, you must alert your local emergency line immediately.

Monitor for suicidal ideation if the patient is taking this drug for depression. Warning signs of suicide includes changes in behavior, giving away important belongings, talking about death, changes in sleep pattern, and social withdrawal. Once you notice any of these, call your local suicide hotline.

This type of medication could cause QT prolongation. Signs of this are fast and irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, and fainting. This type of abnormal heart rhythm warrants immediate medical attention. It could be prevented by staying hydrated and avoiding water pills and diuretics. You must also monitor your magnesium and potassium levels, as low levels of these electrolytes could further trigger QT prolongation.

Alcoholic drinks should be avoided while taking this oral medication. Alcohol could worsen adverse effects, like dizziness and drowsiness. You should also practice safety precautions when driving, using machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness.

You could be more sensitive to the sun while taking this prescription drug. With this, you should limit your sun exposure and avoid indoor tanning. You should also wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen when going outdoors.

It is still unknown whether this antidepressant could pose harm to unborn babies and breastfed children. Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must use this drug only if highly needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aventyl an SSRI?

No, this medication is under the classification of tricyclic antidepressant.

How long will it take for Aventyl medication to work?

It may take four weeks or a month before you experience the full effect of this drug.

Can I take for migraines?

Migraine is not among the listed indications of this drug.

Does Aventyl cause weight gain?

This medication may cause weight changes.

Can I purchase Aventyl online?

Provided that you have a valid doctor’s prescription, you can buy this drug from our website.