Indications
Norpramin is an oral medication primarily indicated to treat symptoms of depression by restoring the balance of certain natural substances in the brain. It contains an active ingredient called desipramine hydrochloride. It belongs to a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, thus increasing their concentration in the brain.
Norpramin may also be used for other purposes as determined by a doctor. Follow the dosage instructions provided by the doctor and report any side effects or concerns while taking Norpramin.
Uses and Dosage
Desipramine can be taken in tablet form with or without food, 1 to 3 times daily. You may experience drowsiness or alertness when taking Desipramine. Your doctor may recommend taking the full dose of Desipramine once daily, either in the morning or at bedtime, depending on how the medication affects you. The specific dosage will depend on your medical condition and your response to the medication and may be gradually increased starting at a low dose. The usual recommended dosage is as below:
- For adults, the typical dosing range is 100 mg to 200 mg daily by mouth, with a maximum daily dose of 300 mg.
- Adolescents and older adults typically take between 25 mg to 100 mg daily by mouth, with a maximum daily dose of 150 mg.
You should not take more or less of the medication than prescribed or take it more often than directed. Doing so will not improve your condition any faster and may increase your risk for side effects. To gain the maximum benefit from Desipramine tablet, use it regularly and try to take it at the same time(s) each day. It may be helpful to set a reminder to take your medication as prescribed.
Continue taking Desipramine tablet even if you feel like you are doing well. You should never stop taking Desipramine abruptly without first consulting with your doctor, as suddenly stopping the medication could cause your condition to worsen. Your doctor may need to gradually reduce your dose over time. Keep in mind that Desipramine tablet may not work immediately for depression, and it may take up to 2-3 weeks to experience the full benefits.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Norpramin (Desipramine):
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Headaches
- Increased appetite
- Nausea
- Trouble sleeping
- Trouble urinating
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Norpramin (Desipramine):
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Breast swelling (in men or women)
- Confusion
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness (particularly when standing)
- ECG changes
- Elevated liver function tests
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (muscle spasms, restlessness, muscle rigidity, slowness of movement, tremor, and jerky movements)
- Fast heart rate
- Increased appetite
- Lack of coordination
- Nervousness
- Numbness and tingling
- Rash
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Sexual dysfunction (decreased sex drive, impotence, difficulty having an orgasm)
- Sweating
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Weight gain
Form and Strength
Norpramin (Desipramine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Desipramine: Tablet
- 10 mg
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 75 mg
- 100 mg
Caution
- Desipramine may cause increased risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in children and young adults.
- Norpramin may cause serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that results from excessive levels of serotonin in the body.
- Desipramine may cause eye problems such as blurred vision, dry eyes, or glaucoma in people with a history of eye problems.
- Norpramin may cause a decrease in blood pressure, especially when standing up suddenly.
- Norpramin may interact with other medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), causing serious side effects.
- Norpramin may cause drowsiness, dizziness or impaired judgment, and patients should not operate heavy machinery or drive while taking the medication.
- Norpramin may cause heart problems, such as abnormal heart rhythm, especially in people with a history of heart disease.
- Norpramin may cause liver or kidney problems, and patients with a history of such problems should be monitored while taking the medication.
- Norpramin should be used with caution in people with a history of alcohol or drug abuse.
- Norpramin may interact with certain foods or drinks, such as alcohol or grapefruit, and patients should avoid or limit their consumption while taking the medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How quickly does desipramine (Norpramin) work for depression?
You might notice an improvement in your mood 2 to 5 days after you start desipramine (Norpramin). But it can take 2 to 3 weeks for you to experience the full benefits of this medication.
Does desipramine (Norpramin) cause weight gain?
Yes, tricyclic antidepressants like desipramine (Norpramin) can cause weight gain. However, some people have lost weight while on this medication.
Can Norpramin (Desipramine) be addictive?
Norpramin (Desipramine) is not inherently addictive, but it may lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly after long-term use.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Norpramin (Desipramine)?
Patients should avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Norpramin (Desipramine), as it may worsen certain side effects and interactions.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/norpramin.html
- https://www.psycom.net/adhd-medications-norpramin-desipramine
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/desipramine
- https://www.goodrx.com/desipramine/what-is
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/014399s069lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6936/norpramin-oral/details
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