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Ativan vs. Nortriptyline: Comparison
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
- Are Nortriptyline and Ativan the Same Thing?
- What Are Possible Side Effects of Ativan?
- What Are Possible Side Effects of Nortriptyline?
- What is Ativan?
- What is Nortriptyline?
- What Drugs Interact with Ativan?
- What Drugs Interact with Nortriptyline?
- How Should Ativan Be Taken?
- How Should Nortriptyline Be Taken?
Are Nortriptyline and Ativan the Same Thing?
Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine used for the management of anxiety disorders, insomnia, panic attacks, and alcohol withdrawal.
Nortriptyline is a different type of drug called a tricyclic antidepressant used to relieve the symptoms of depression.
What Are Possible Side Effects of Ativan?
Most adverse reactions to benzodiazepines, including CNS effects and \respiratory depression, are dose dependent, with more severe effects occurring with high doses.
Common side effects of Ativan include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Muscle weakness
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Forgetfulness or amnesia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Changes in appetite
- Skin rash
What Are Possible Side Effects of Nortriptyline?
Common side effects of Nortriptyline include:
- fast heart rate,
- palpitations,
- blurred vision,
- urinary retention or urinary frequency,
- dry mouth,
- constipation,
- weight gain or loss,
- skin rash,
- confusion (especially in the elderly),
- anxiety,
- restlessness,
- insomnia,
- numbness or tingling of extremities,
- tremors,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- diarrhea,
- strange taste in mouth,
- abdominal cramps,
- breast enlargement,
- changes in sex drive,
- sweating,
- flushing,
- dizziness,
- weakness,
- fatigue,
- headache,