Desipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine. It is sold under the brand names Norpramin® and Pertofrane®. It is used to treat depression, but not considered a first line treatment since the introduction of SSRI antidepressants. Desipramine is an active metabolite of imipramine.

Uses of Desipramine

Desipramine is a medication that is used to treat depression, defined as an all-pervasive sense of sadness and gloom. Desipramine belongs to the tricyclic class of antidepressants called tricyclic antidepressants or TCAs. In some patients with depression, abnormal levels of neurotransmitters in the brain (chemicals that the nerves use to communicate with each other) may be responsible for the depression.
This medicine is used for the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive and compulsive symptoms, panic disorder, eating disorders, chronic and pain conditions.
It is also used to prevent migraine headaches and bedwetting in children.

How to Take Desipramine

Norpramin should be taken exactly as prescribed.
Do not stop taking Norpramin if you feel no immediate effect. It can take up to 2 or 3 weeks for improvement to begin.

What are the Side Effects of Desipramine Medication

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Norpramin. Side effects may include:

Abdominal cramps
agitation
anxiety
black tongue
black
red or blue spots on skin
blurred vision
breast development in males
breast enlargement in females
confusion
constipation
delusions
diarrhea
dilated pupils
disorientation
dizziness
drowsiness
dry mouth
excessive or spontaneous flow of milk
fatigue
fever
flushing
frequent urination or difficulty or delay in urinating
hallucinations
headache
heart attack
heartbeat irregularities

Warnings and precautions before taking Desipramine Medication

Before using Norpramin, tell your doctor if you have heart or thyroid disease, a seizure disorder, a history of being unable to urinate, or glaucoma.
Nausea, headache, and uneasiness can result if you suddenly stop taking Norpramin. Consult your doctor and follow instructions closely when discontinuing Norpramin.
This drug may impair your ability to drive a car or operate potentially dangerous machinery. Do not participate in any activities that require full alertness if you are unsure about your ability.
Norpramin may increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Overexposure could cause rash, itching, redness, or sunburn. Avoid direct sunlight or wear protective clothing.
If you are planning to have elective surgery, make sure that your doctor is aware that you are taking Norpramin. It should be discontinued as soon as possible prior to urgery.
Tell your doctor if you develop a fever and sore throat while you are taking Norpramin. He may want to do some blood tests.

What drugs may interact with Desipramine Tablet

People who take antidepressant drugs known as MAO inhibitors (including Nardil and Parnate) should not take Norpramin.

If Norpramin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Norpramin with the following:

Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Drugs that improve breathing, such as Proventil
Drugs that relax certain muscles, such as Bentyl
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Guanethidine (Ismelin)
Paroxetine (Paxil)
Sedatives/hypnotics (Halcion, Valium)
Sertraline (Zoloft)
Thyroid medications (Synthroid)

What to do if you take Overdose of Desipramine ?

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. An overdosage of Norpramin can be fatal. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include:

Agitation
coma
confusion
convulsions
dilated pupils
disturbed concentration
drowsiness
extremely low blood pressure
hallucinations
high fever
irregular heart rate
low body temperature
overactive reflexes
rigid muscles
stupor
vomiting

How to Store Desipramine ?

Desipramine should be stored below 86° F (30°C) in a tight, light resistant container.

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