Pamelor (nortriptyline) is classified as which type of medication?

Pamelor (nortriptyline) is classified as a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). This category of medications is primarily used to treat depression but also has applications in managing chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and certain types of headaches. Tricyclic antidepressants work by blocking the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, which helps to elevate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

This classification is distinct from selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which primarily focus on increasing serotonin levels without affecting norepinephrine significantly. Beta-blockers, on the other hand, are primarily used for cardiovascular issues, and opioid analgesics are employed for pain management. Therefore, the correct classification of Pamelor as a tricyclic antidepressant aligns with its pharmacological action and therapeutic effects.