Norpramin
(desipramine)
Stabilizes your mood.
Our bottom line
Norpramin (desipramine) is not a first choice for treating depression because of its effects on the heart, but it can be good if other medicines haven't worked.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (desipramine)
Upsides
- Norpramin (desipramine) is available in generic and in many different strengths, so the dose can be more customized.
- Norpramin (desipramine) has fewer side effects than similar tricyclic antidepressants.
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What to expect from desipramine, on one page
Download Fact SheetDownsides
- Norpramin (desipramine) isn't recommended if you or your family has heart disease, seizures, or glaucoma.
- Norpramin (desipramine) isn't a first choice for depression because it has more side effects than other antidepressants.
- In some people, Norpramin (desipramine) can make you sleepy. In other people, Norpramin (desipramine) can keep you awake.
- If you have diabetes, Norpramin (desipramine) can make your blood sugar go up.
- Not recommended in children under 12 years of age.
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What to expect from desipramine, on one page
Download Fact SheetNorpramin (desipramine) is a tricyclic antidepressant. It increases the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, two chemicals that regulate mood.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (desipramine)
Used for
- Depression
- Diabetic neuropathy
Dosage forms
- Pill
Prices and coupons
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What to expect when you take Norpramin (desipramine) for Depression
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonthsLong term
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonthsLong term
- Possible side effects
- Changes in sleep
- Heart damage
- Changes in weight
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Skin rashes
Side effect rates for Norpramin (desipramine)
Risks and Warnings for Norpramin (desipramine)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › People under age 24
Taking Norpramin (desipramine) can make you more likely to harm yourself or commit suicide, especially if you are younger and during the first few weeks of taking it. If you or your child feel like they want to hurt themselves while taking Norpramin (desipramine), call the doctor right away.
This is a black box warning. The FDA requires this warning when there is a significant risk of serious or life-threatening effects that anyone taking the drug should consider.
Common concerns from people taking Norpramin (desipramine)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?The FDA hasn’t classified this medicine’s effects on unborn babies. Talk with your doctor about this medicine if you’re pregnant or planning on it.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.