Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Desipramine is employed in the treatment of depression. It belongs to a category of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants. Its mechanism of action involves augmenting the levels of specific natural compounds within the brain that are essential for maintaining mental equilibrium.
Uses and Dosage
Desipramine is available in tablet form for oral consumption. It is typically taken once or multiple times a day, with or without food. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule for taking desipramine is advisable.
Strictly follow the prescribed dosage regimen for desipramine. Avoid altering the dosage—neither increasing nor decreasing it—nor should you exceed the frequency outlined by your doctor.
Your doctor may initiate your treatment with a low dose of desipramine, subsequently adjusting the dosage incrementally.
It might take approximately 2 to 3 weeks before the full therapeutic effects of desipramine become noticeable. Even if your condition improves, continue taking desipramine as prescribed. Refrain from discontinuing the medication without consulting your doctor. Abrupt cessation of desipramine could lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and weakness. Your doctor is likely to recommend a gradual reduction of your dosage if discontinuation is warranted.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- drowsiness
- weakness or tiredness
- nightmares
- dry mouth
- skin more sensitive to sunlight than usual
- changes in appetite or weight
- constipation
- difficulty urinating
- frequent urination
- changes in sex drive or ability
- excessive sweating
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- jaw, neck, and back muscle spasms
- slow or difficult speech
- shuffling walk
- uncontrollable shaking or movement of a part of the body
- fever
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- severe rash
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- irregular heartbeat
- seizures
- sore throat, fever, and other signs of infection
Caution
Before initiating this medication, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any known allergies to it, to other tricyclic antidepressants (such as imipramine, amitriptyline), or to any other substances. Inactive components within this product could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to using this medication, relay your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have respiratory issues, a personal or family history of glaucoma (specifically the angle-closure type), diabetes, eating disorders, heart conditions, liver or kidney problems, a personal or family history of other mental/mood conditions, seizures, hyperthyroidism, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or any conditions that could heighten the risk of seizures, as well as certain types of tumors (like pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma).
Desipramine might cause a heart rhythm condition known as QT prolongation. While this is rare, it could lead to serious (and rarely fatal) instances of rapid or irregular heartbeat, accompanied by symptoms such as severe dizziness or fainting, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the bloodstream could amplify the risk of QT prolongation. This risk might escalate if specific medications (such as diuretics or “water pills”) are being used or if conditions like heavy sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting are present. Discuss the secure utilization of desipramine with your doctor.
This drug could potentially induce dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana could exacerbate these effects. Therefore, activities requiring alertness or clear vision, such as driving, operating machinery, or activities necessitating vigilance, should be approached cautiously.
This medication might heighten sensitivity to sunlight. Reduce exposure to the sun, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and when outdoors, use sunscreen and protective clothing. Notify your doctor promptly if sunburn or skin blisters/redness occur.
For individuals with diabetes, this drug could potentially complicate blood sugar control. Regular blood sugar monitoring as directed is crucial, and promptly report symptoms such as heightened thirst or urination. Your doctor might need to adjust your diabetes management plan.
Among older adults, heightened sensitivity to this drug’s side effects is conceivable. This might encompass increased dizziness (particularly upon standing), drowsiness, constipation, difficulty urinating, mental/mood alterations (like confusion or agitation), as well as potential heart effects such as QT prolongation (as described above). Dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion can elevate the risk of falls.
During pregnancy, the utilization of this medication is recommended only when clearly essential. Infants born to mothers who have taken similar medications during pregnancy might exhibit symptoms such as difficulty urinating, prolonged sleepiness, shaking, and seizures. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
Considering that untreated mental/mood disorders (such as depression or panic disorder) can be serious, discontinuing this medication should only occur under the guidance of your doctor. If pregnancy is being considered, if pregnancy occurs, or if you suspect pregnancy, promptly discuss with your doctor the advantages and potential drawbacks of using this medication during pregnancy.
This drug is transmitted into breast milk and could potentially impact a nursing infant adversely. Consultation with your doctor is recommended prior to breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Norpramin is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
desipramine tablet:
- 10mg
- 25mg
- 50mg
- 75mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Norpramin to work?
It may take 2 to 3 weeks for you to feel the full benefit of Norpramin. Continue to take desipramine even if you feel well.
Is Norpramin a stimulant?
Norpramin is not a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) and does not act primarily as a central nervous system stimulant.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/014399s069lbl.pdf
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682387.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6936/norpramin-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/desipramine-oral-route/description/drg-20071955
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/norpramin.html
