Indications 

Aventyl is a prescription medication utilized to treat depression. It can help enhance mood and well-being, alleviate anxiety and tension, and increase energy levels. 

Belonging to the class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants, Aventyl exerts its therapeutic effects by increasing the levels of specific natural substances in the brain required for the maintenance of mental balance. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Aventyl and every time you get a refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or concerns. 

Aventyl dosage is determined based on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment. To mitigate the possibility of adverse effects (such as dry mouth and dizziness), physicians may instruct patients to initiate treatment with a low dose and gradually titrate upward. 

Typically, Aventyl is taken one to four times a day as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake.  

Take Aventyl regularly around the same time(s) each day for optimal results. Avoid exceeding the prescribed dosage or frequency, as doing so will not expedite recovery but can raise the risk of side effects. 

Do not discontinue Aventyl without consulting your physician, even if you feel well. Abrupt cessation may cause withdrawal symptoms such as headache, nausea, and weakness. Your doctor may advise tapering the dosage gradually. 

Report any worsening of your condition, including increased feelings of sadness or suicidal thoughts, to your doctor. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Aventyl. If any of them persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Fast heart rate 
• Palpitations 
• Blurred vision 
• Urinary retention 
• Urinary frequency 
• Dry mouth 
• Constipation 
• Weight gain or loss 
• Skin rash 
• Confusion 
• Anxiety 
• Restlessness 
• Insomnia 
• Numbness or tingling of extremities 
• Tremors 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Strange taste in the mouth 
• Abdominal cramps 
• Breast enlargement 
• Changes in sex drive 
• Sweating 
• Flushing 
• Dizziness 
• Weakness 
• Fatigue 
• Headache 
• High blood pressure 
• Low blood pressure on standing (orthostatic hypotension) 

Serious Side Effects 

• Persistent heartburn 
• Shaking 
• Mask-like facial expressions 
• Muscle spasms 
• Severe stomach pain 
• Decreased sexual desire 
• Enlarged or painful breasts 
• Fast heartbeat 
• Hallucinations 
• Loss of coordination 
• Severe dizziness 
• Severe nausea 
• Severe vomiting 
• Severe diarrhea 
• Twitching muscles 
• Unexplained fever 
• Unusual agitation or restlessness 
• Fainting 
• Seizures 
• Eye pain, swelling, or redness 
• Widened pupils 
• Vision changes 
• Seeing halos around lights 

Seek medical attention immediately if any of the above-mentioned severe side effects are experienced. 

Allergic Reactions 

A severe allergic reaction to Aventyl is uncommon; however, seek medical assistance immediately if you experience any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as: 

• Rash 
• Hives 
• Itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever 
• Wheezing 
• Tightness in the chest or throat 
• Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Aventyl. Tell your doctor promptly if other side effects not listed above are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before taking Aventyl, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to nortriptyline, other tricyclic antidepressants, any other medications, or any ingredients present in Aventyl tablets. 

To ensure Aventyl is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Breathing problems 
• Liver problems 
• Recent heart attack 
• Problems urinating, such as due to enlarged prostate 
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) 
• Personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type) 
• Personal or family history of mental/mood conditions, such as bipolar disorder or psychosis 
• Family history of suicide 
• Seizures or increased risk of seizures due to other brain diseases or alcohol withdrawal 

Inform your doctor about all your medicines, including prescription, over the counter, dietary supplements, and herbal products. This will help reduce the chance of drug interactions that could affect how well Aventyl works or increase the risk of side effects. 

Some products that may interact with Aventyl include: 

• Arbutamine 
• Blood thinners such as warfarin 
• Disulfiram 
• Thyroid supplements 
• Anticholinergic drugs such as belladonna alkaloids 
• Certain high blood pressure medications that work in the brain, such as clonidine and guanabenz 

Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, and selegiline) with Aventyl, as it may cause a serious and potentially fatal drug interaction. Consult your doctor on when to start or stop taking the medication, as most MAO inhibitors should not be taken for two weeks before and after treatment with Aventyl. 

Various medications can interfere with the elimination of nortriptyline from the body, subsequently impacting its efficacy. These drugs comprise cimetidine, as well as medicines for managing irregular heart rates (like quinidine, propafenone, and flecainide). However, this list is not exhaustive. 

Check all your medicine labels for decongestants or drowsiness-causing ingredients and consult your pharmacist before using them. In addition, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you use other drugs causing drowsiness, such as: 

• Alcohol 
• Cannabis 
• Antihistamines 
• Muscle relaxants 
• Sleep or anxiety medications 
• Opioid pain relievers such as codeine 

Avoid taking medications containing amitriptyline while taking Aventyl, as they are very similar to its active ingredient, nortriptyline. 

Serotonin syndrome, a severe and potentially fatal condition, may occur while taking Aventyl and may be more likely if combined with certain medications. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as agitation, confusion, fever, rapid or irregular heartbeat, hallucinations, muscle stiffness or twitching, seizures, shaking, sweating excessively, severe diarrhea or vomiting, or a severe headache. 

Aventyl has been associated with Brugada Syndrome in some individuals who were unaware they had the condition. Brugada Syndrome can cause abnormal heartbeats and increase the risk of sudden death. Consult your doctor for further details. 

Monitor and report your blood sugar levels regularly if you have diabetes while taking Aventyl, as it may make it more difficult to control them. Notify your doctor of any changes; they may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet accordingly. 

Limit alcohol and cannabis use while taking Aventyl as they may increase dizziness and drowsiness caused by this medication. Avoid driving, using machinery, or doing activities that require clear vision or alertness until you can do them safely. 

Limit sun exposure and avoid tanning beds or lamps when using Aventyl, as it may increase your sun sensitivity. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen while outdoors and notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness. 

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. A discussion regarding the potential benefits and risks for both you and your baby will be necessary.