Is nortriptyline a sleeping pill?

Nortriptyline is not primarily used as a sleeping pill or a sedative, but it can have sedative effects in some individuals. Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that is primarily used to treat depression, but may also be used off-label to treat other conditions such as anxiety, neuropathic pain, and migraine headaches.

While nortriptyline is not a sleeping pill, it may be effective in treating certain types of sleep disorders, such as insomnia associated with depression or chronic pain. In addition, the sedative effects of nortriptyline may help some individuals fall asleep more easily or stay asleep longer.

It is important to use nortriptyline only under the guidance of a healthcare provider, who can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and medical history. Like any medication, nortriptyline can cause side effects, some of which may be serious. It may also interact with other medications, so it is important to discuss any medications or medical conditions with a healthcare provider before taking nortriptyline.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as: