Desipramine

Generic Name

• Desipramine.

Brand Names

• Norpramin, Pertofrane.

General Information

Desipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine. These types of drugs are used to treat depression. This drug works by affecting the chemicals produced by the brain, and working at the responding to the brain's messengers. Desipramine is also in some instances used to treat individuals suffering from bulimia and attention deficit disorder syndrome. Along with other tricyclics, desipramine has found use in treating neuropathic pain. Desipramine is one of the most potent and selective medications in this respect. Desipramine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken one or more times a day and may be taken with or without food. 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. Desipramine elevates mood and relieves depression by raising the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. This drug may rarely cause a serious nervous system disorder. Desipramine can affect a patient's concentration and coordination. Patient's should not drive or operate heavy machinery until it is known that Desipramine does not impair the ability to safely engage in these activities.

Desipramine Dosage

• The dose of desipramine is tailored to the patient's needs.
• Some physicians start with relatively low doses, such as 25 mg three times a day, to reduce the risk of excessive sedation early in treatment; doses then will be slowly increased.
• Elderly persons and patients with advanced liver disease may need lower doses.
• It is recommended that you take this medication at bedtime.

Side Effects of Desipramine

The following side effects of Desipramine may includes:

• Upset stomach.
• Dry mouth and insomnia.
• Blurred vision.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Drowsiness.
• Irregular heart beat.
• Weakness or tiredness.

Warning and precautions before taking Desipramine

• If you are going to take this medication your doctor needs to know if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, urinary retention, glaucoma, thyroid disease, and a history of seizures.
• If you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breast-feeding, you need to inform your doctor immediately as this medication could have a negative reaction to your baby or unborn child.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• If you are taking this medication you need to avoid exposure to sunlight and you need to wear protective clothing and you need to avoid exposure to the sun while on this medication.
• If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking desipramine.
• Caution is advised when using this drug in children.

Overdosage

• An overdose of desipramine can be fatal.
• If you by chance take more than the recommended amount of this drug and overdose, contact poison control center immediately; along with your doctor.
• Symptoms may include uneven heartbeats, extreme drowsiness, vomiting, blurred vision, confusion, hallucinations, muscle stiffness, feeling hot or cold, seizure (convulsions), or coma.
• Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.

Home | Drugs | Contact Us | Skin Disorders | Home Remedies | Diabetes | Health Blog
Copyright © HealthAtoZ.info All Rights Reserved.