Why does nortriptyline make you constipated?

Nortriptyline: Nortriptyline is an a tricyclic antidepressant. One of the side effects of this drug is to block acetylcholine at the parasympathetic nerve cell to smooth muscles. Smooth muscles are responsible for contracting the . With the contractions of the colon inhibited, constipation develops.

Nortriptylene: Nortriptylene has some anticholinergic effects on your body, which can interfere with the functioning of your GI system. This may depend on dose, which can be adjusted. Please discuss with your physician. In the meantime, drink plenty of liquids (especially water) and make sure you have fiber in your diet (fresh veggies and fruits, etc).

Anticholinergic: Nortriptyline is in a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants. These drugs have what are called anticholinergic effects (side effects). Among other things, they inhibit certain nerve impulses affecting involuntary muscles such as those in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, causing constipation, urinary retention, dry mouth and a variety of other other side effects.