Norpramin

Common Name: desipramine HCl

How does Norpramin work?

Desipramine belongs to the class of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants. Desipramine helps to elevate mood and eliminate or reduce other symptoms associated with depression. Tricyclic antidepressants such as desipramine work by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin neurotransmitters (chemical substances in the brain) available in certain parts of the brain. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Norpramin?

The recommended adult dose of desipramine ranges from 25 mg to 300 mg daily in single or divided doses. The usual adult dose is 100 mg to 200 mg daily. Doses above 300 mg daily are not recommended. Desipramine may be taken with or without food. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Norpramin come in?

Norpramin® is available in strengths of 25 mg and 50 mg. 25 mg: Each yellow, round, film-coated tablet, imprinted "NORPRAMIN 25" in black, contains desipramine 25 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: black iron oxide, cornstarch, hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate, mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate, starch pregelatinized, propylene glycol, titanium dioxide, Yellow D&C No. 10, and Yellow FD&C No. 6. 50 mg: Each green, round, film-coated tablet, imprinted "NORPRAMIN 50" in black, contains desipramine 50 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: black iron oxide, Blue FD&C No. 1, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate, propylene glycol, pregelatinized starch, starch, talc, titanium dioxide, Yellow FD&C No. 6, and Yellow D&C No. 10. This medication does not contain tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Norpramin?

Desipramine should not be taken by anyone who: has just had a heart attack has acute congestive heart failure has taken a MAO inhibitor (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) in the last 14 days is allergic to desipramine or any of the ingredients of the medication

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Norpramin?

Diabetes: Both elevation and lowering of blood sugar levels have been reported with desipramine use. People with diabetes or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) should monitor their blood glucose levels closely while taking this medication Heart disease: Tricyclic antidepressant drugs such as desipramine, particularly when taken in high doses, can cause abnormal heart rhythms. Therefore, desipramine should be taken with caution by seniors or those with a history of heart disease. Medical conditions: Desipramine should be used with caution by people with: thyroid disease a history of seizures mania (desipramine may induce mania in people with a history of mania or bipolar disorder) urinary retention narrow-angle glaucoma increased eye pressure Occupational hazards: Desipramine may reduce the mental or physical abilities required for the performance of hazardous tasks, such as operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle. Pregnancy: There are no good studies of the effects of taking desipramine during pregnancy. Pregnant women should speak to their doctor about benefits and risks of taking this medication. Breast-feeding: Desipramine passes into breast milk. Because of the potential for serious side effects in infants, a decision should be made to stop nursing or to stop taking the medication. Children: Desipramine is not recommended for use by children