Norpramin (Desipramine)

Do’s

• Take Norpramin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, with or without food.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions on dosage and frequency. They may start you low and gradually increase the dose.
• Take Norpramin consistently at the same time(s) each day for best results.
• Be patient, as it may take 2-3 weeks to experience the full effects of depression.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition improves to see if a lower dose is possible.
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition worsens or persists.

Don'ts

• Don't take more Norpramin than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't skip doses or stop taking Norpramin without talking to your healthcare provider first. Stopping abruptly can worsen your condition.
• Don't crush, chew, or break Norpramin tablets. Swallow them whole.
• Don't drive or operate machinery if Norpramin makes you drowsy.

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Abnormal heartbeats
• Photosensitivity (sun sensitivity)
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Weight changes
• Low blood pressure upon arising that may cause lightheadedness
• Rash
• Hives
• Seizures
• Hepatitis
• Sexual dysfunction

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations, memory problems)
• Enlarged/painful breasts
• Unusual breast milk production
• Irregular/painful menstrual period
• Serious allergic reactions, such as hives or rapid heartbeat
• Severe skin reactions, including severe sunburn, blisters, or swelling of the skin due to photosensitivity
• Tendon-related issues, such as swelling or tearing of tendons
• Nerve damage, which may cause permanent nerve damage
• Serious heart rhythm changes, such as QTc prolongation and torsade de pointes
• Suicide risk and worsening depression
• Symptoms of low blood sugar
• Signs of liver problems
• Muscle weakness
• Worsening symptoms
• Serotonin syndrome (when there is excess serotonin in the body)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Norpramin,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to Desipramine or other tricyclic antidepressants before taking it.

Tell your healthcare provider about any pre-existing conditions, especially breathing problems, glaucoma, diabetes, eating disorders, heart problems, liver problems, kidney problems, mental health conditions, seizures, thyroid problems, urinary problems, or conditions that increase seizure risk.

Norpramin may affect heart rhythm. Tell your healthcare provider about any heart conditions or medications that can affect heart rhythm, and also about low potassium or magnesium levels in your blood.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including Norpramin, before surgery.

Norpramin may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving or activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen these effects.

Norpramin can increase sun sensitivity. Limit sun exposure and use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors.

Norpramin may affect blood sugar control in diabetics. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and tell your healthcare provider about any changes. Your diabetes treatment plan may need to be adjusted.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects of Norpramin, especially dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, urination problems, mental/mood changes, and heart effects.

Norpramin should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Norpramin passes into breast milk, so consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

While Norpramin can help with depression, in a small number of people, especially those under 25, it may worsen depression or suicidal thoughts. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you experience worsening depression or suicidal thoughts.

Norpramin can interact with many other medications, including heart medications, antidepressants, antibiotics, antifungals, and herbal products. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take before starting Norpramin.

The risk of serotonin syndrome increases if you take Norpramin with other medications that increase serotonin. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including supplements and street drugs.

Cigarette smoking can decrease Norpramin's effectiveness. Tell your healthcare provider if you smoke or recently quit.

Norpramin can cause drowsiness, which can be worsened by alcohol, marijuana, or other medications. Avoid activities requiring alertness until you know how Norpramin affects you.

Desipramine vs Imipramine: Norpramin (Desipramine) is very similar to Imipramine. Do not take medications containing Imipramine while using Desipramine.