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Compare Pamelor vs. Lidoderm

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Nortriptyline (Pamelor) and lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) are both used to manage nerve pain, but they belong to different medication classes and have distinct uses. Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily approved for treating depression, but it is also used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention. It is taken orally in capsule or liquid form. Common side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, and weight gain. Lidocaine 5% patch, on the other hand, is a local anesthetic specifically approved for nerve pain caused by shingles, known as postherpetic neuralgia. It is applied topically to the skin for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period, and it works by directly numbing the area. Side effects are usually mild and include skin irritation and redness. Nortriptyline can interact with medications like sedatives and MAOIs, while lidocaine patches should not be used with heat or other lidocaine products to avoid excessive absorption.

  • Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
  • Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)

  • Summary of Pamelor vs. Lidoderm

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It's approved to treat depression in adults. This medication is also often prescribed off-label to treat certain types of nerve pain. Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is available as a capsule and liquid that are taken by mouth. Side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, and possible weight gain. This medication is available under the brand name Pamelor and as a generic.

    Summary for Local anesthetic
    Prescription only

    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.

  • Indications of Pamelor vs. Lidoderm

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)

  • Pros and Cons of Pamelor vs. Lidoderm

    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Available as a capsule and liquid
    •Taken by mouth once per day, or split into smaller doses throughout the day
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice option for depression because of side effects
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it after long-term use
    •Not recommended for children
    Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
    Pros
    •Works directly on the skin
    •Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
    •Can cut patches to fit the area of pain
    Cons
    •Commonly causes skin irritation
    •Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch
    •Might interact with many medications

  • Common Side Effects of Pamelor vs. Lidoderm

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blurred vision
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Stomach upset
    •Loss of appetite
    •Numbness in the hands or feet
    •Rash
    •Itching
    •Changes in blood pressure
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blisters
    •Bruising
    •Burning sensation
    •Changes in skin color
    •Rash or redness
    •Swelling
    •Peeling or flaking skin
    •Itching
    •Small bumps or spots
    •Tiny red or purple dots under the skin
    •Tingling or numbness in the area

  • Warnings of Pamelor vs. Lidoderm

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression and risk for suicidal thoughts and unusual behavior
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Dizziness and drowsiness
    •Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
    •Glaucoma
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Absorbing too much medication
    •Accidental poisoning in children or pets

  • Prices with our coupons for Pamelor vs. Lidoderm

    Learn more about Nortriptyline
    Learn more about Lidocaine 5% patch

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