Questions and Answers
What is the trade name of nortriptyline?
Pamelor
What are the therapeutic effects of nortriptyline?
Antidepressant action that develops slowly over several weeks
What are the side effects of nortriptyline?
Suicidal thoughts, drowsiness, fatigue, lethargy, arrhythmias, hypotension, blurred vision, dry eyes, dry mouth, constipation
What is the nurse assessment for patients taking nortriptyline?
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What is the patient teaching about nortriptyline?
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Study Notes
Nortriptyline Overview
- Trade name: Pamelor
- Classified as a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA).
Therapeutic Effects
- Exhibits antidepressant properties that manifest gradually over several weeks.
Side Effects
- Risk of suicidal thoughts, particularly in young adults.
- Common side effects include:
- Drowsiness, fatigue, and lethargy.
- Cardiac issues: arrhythmias, hypotension.
- Visual disturbances: blurred vision, dry eyes.
- Digestive issues: dry mouth, constipation.
Nurse Assessment
- Conduct regular ECG monitoring in elderly patients or those with heart conditions.
- Potential cardiac effects include prolonged PR and QT intervals, with possible T wave flattening.
- Evaluate for suicidal tendencies, especially during the initial treatment phase.
- Limit available medication to reduce overdose risk.
- High-risk groups: children, adolescents, and adults aged 24 or younger.
- Follow-up schedule for young patients includes weekly visits for the first month, then every three weeks for the next month, with adjustments as needed thereafter.
Patient Teaching
- Educate family and caregivers to observe for suicidal thoughts or behaviors during early therapy and when doses are adjusted.
- Urge patients to report any manifestations of worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, or changes in mood immediately.
- Be vigilant for symptoms of serotonin syndrome and seek immediate care if they occur.
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Description
Test your knowledge about nortriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, with these flashcards. Learn about its trade name, therapeutic effects, and side effects. Perfect for students or anyone looking to understand this medication better.
