Pamelor® is a prescription medication commonly used to treat depression or anxiety. This medication works by helping to balance chemicals in the brain when it is believed that a chemical imbalance may be responsible for the onset of depression. Pamelor® may be used alone or in combination with other medications. Common side effects of Pamelor® may include digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Some patients may also experience weight changes, coordination problems, or a mild skin rash.
Some patients may not be able to take Pamelor®. Patients who have recently suffered a heart attack are not generally advised to take this medication. Other health conditions such as seizure disorders, diabetes, or glaucoma may prevent the patient from being a good candidate for this medication. The doctor will need a complete medical history before deciding whether Pamelor® is an acceptable treatment method.
Although Pamelor® is used to treat conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders, it is not generally recommended for patients who suffer from other psychological illnesses, even if these conditions include anxiety or depression as primary symptoms. For instance, patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder are not typically treated with this medication.
Most side effects of Pamelor® are mild and do not require the patient to discontinue the use of the drug, but any negative side effects should be reported to a doctor for further evaluation. The most common side effects include mild nausea, slight coordination problems, or a mild skin rash. Some patients may experience more serious side effects, such as irregular heartbeat, tremors, or varying degrees of confusion.
While relatively uncommon, some patients have reported the development of, or an increase in, suicidal thoughts or ideas. These patients should discontinue this medication and contact a doctor right away. A small percentage of patients have also reported increased feelings of anger or aggression. These are symptoms that typically indicate that a change in the medication is necessary.
Allergic reactions to Pamelor® are rare, but if this does occur, it is a medical emergency and immediate medical attention is required. Signs of a potential allergic reaction include a rash, swelling of the face or tongue, and difficulty breathing. This kind of reaction can be fatal if not treated right away. If an allergic reaction is suspected, the patient should report to the nearest emergency department as soon as possible so that treatment can begin.