Patient/caregiver was instructed on side effects of using nortriptyline as follows:
General allergic reactions
- Nortriptyline use can result in general allergic reactions, such as, skin rashes, hives, and itching.
- Some patients can present with symptoms of severe allergic and anaphylactic response with nortriptyline, such as, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, throat, and tongue, with consequent difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical help for such findings, especially with difficulty breathing, for any appropriate measures to be considered.
Photosensitivity
- Nortriptyline intake can increase the risk for skin rash and photosensitivity, in individuals exposed to sunlight. Individuals can present with rash, itching, redness, or other discoloration, or severe sunburn upon exposure to sunlight.
- Individuals taking nortriptyline, especially those with history of photosensitivity, should avoid natural bright lights and tanning booths. Using sunscreens and protective clothing, when getting out in the sun, can help prevent any photosensitive responses from developing.
Vision changes
- Nortriptyline use can result in pupillary dilation and obstruction to the drainage of fluid (aqueous humor) inside the eye.
- This blockage of fluid in the eye can result in increase in the intraocular pressure, leading to glaucoma.
- Individuals with glaucoma can present with eye pain, headache, and blurred vision with haloes around light.
