WARNING

Desipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression, but like all medications, it carries certain risks. Some potential side effects include:

• Cardiovascular effects: Desipramine can cause changes in heart rate and rhythm, which may be problematic for individuals with heart conditions.
• Anticholinergic effects: These include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and cognitive impairment, particularly in the elderly.
• Central nervous system effects: These may include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and seizures, especially in overdose situations.
• Weight gain: Some individuals may experience weight gain while taking desipramine.
• Suicidal thoughts: There is a risk of increased suicidal ideation, particularly in younger individuals, when starting or changing the dosage of desipramine.
• Withdrawal symptoms: Abruptly stopping desipramine can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headache, and mood changes.

It’s essential to discuss these potential risks and side effects with a healthcare professional before starting desipramine or any other medication. They can provide personalized advice and monitor for any adverse reactions during treatment.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Desipramine is prescribed primarily to treat depression, particularly major depressive disorder. It belongs to a class of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), which work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, that are thought to be involved in regulating mood.

How should this medicine be used?

When using desipramine, it’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Typically, the medication is taken orally in the form of tablets or capsules, and the dosage is tailored to each individual based on factors such as age, medical condition, and response to treatment.

Here are some general guidelines for using desipramine:

• Dosage: The initial dosage is usually low and gradually increased over time as tolerated. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
• Frequency: Desipramine is typically taken one to four times daily, depending on the formulation and your healthcare provider’s instructions. It’s essential to take it regularly as prescribed, even if you start to feel better.
• Duration: Continue taking desipramine for the full duration of treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve. Suddenly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a recurrence of depression.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may periodically monitor your progress and adjust your dosage as needed. It’s essential to attend follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or side effects you may experience.
• Avoid alcohol and certain medications: Alcohol and certain medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), should be avoided while taking desipramine, as they can increase the risk of side effects and interactions.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about how to use desipramine safely and effectively.

Other uses for this medicine

Some off-label uses of desipramine include:

• Chronic pain: Desipramine may be used to help manage certain types of chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain or migraine headaches.
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Desipramine may be used off-label in some cases to help manage symptoms of ADHD, particularly in individuals who have not responded well to other treatments.
• Enuresis: Desipramine may be used to treat bedwetting (enuresis) in children over six years old, particularly when other treatments have been unsuccessful.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking desipramine, there are several special precautions you should be aware of:

• Suicidal thoughts: Like other antidepressants, desipramine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential, especially when starting or adjusting the dosage of desipramine.
• Serotonin syndrome: Desipramine may interact with other medications to cause a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome, characterized by symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, fever, sweating, and muscle stiffness. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid this risk.
• Cardiovascular effects: Desipramine can affect heart rate and rhythm, so it should be used with caution in individuals with heart conditions or a history of cardiovascular disease.
• Glaucoma: Desipramine can increase intraocular pressure and should be used cautiously in individuals with glaucoma.
• Seizures: Desipramine may lower the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of seizures, particularly in individuals with a history of epilepsy or seizure disorders.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Desipramine should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and potentially harm a nursing infant. The benefits and risks should be carefully weighed by a healthcare provider.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and discuss any concerns or questions you have about using desipramine safely and effectively.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with desipramine. However, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption is generally advisable for overall health and well-being. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of desipramine and may worsen certain side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of desipramine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Taking too much desipramine at once can increase the risk of side effects and complications.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Desipramine, like other medications, can cause a range of side effects, which may vary in severity and frequency among individuals. Common side effects of desipramine include:

• Dry mouth: This is one of the most frequently reported side effects of desipramine. Sipping water or using sugar-free candy or gum can help alleviate this symptom.
• Constipation: Desipramine can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation. Eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and staying physically active can help prevent or relieve constipation.
• Blurred vision: Desipramine may cause blurred vision or difficulty focusing. It’s important to avoid activities that require clear vision, such as driving or operating machinery, if you experience this side effect.
• Urinary retention: Some individuals may have difficulty emptying their bladder while taking desipramine. If you experience difficulty urinating or notice a decrease in urine output, contact your healthcare provider.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Desipramine can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly. Take your time when changing positions to avoid falls or injury.
• Drowsiness or fatigue: Desipramine may cause drowsiness or fatigue, particularly at the beginning of treatment or when dosage adjustments are made. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel excessively drowsy.
• Weight gain: Some individuals may experience weight gain while taking desipramine. Monitoring your weight regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage this side effect.
• Sexual dysfunction: Desipramine can interfere with sexual function, leading to decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, or erectile dysfunction. Discuss any concerns about sexual side effects with your healthcare provider.
• Increased heart rate: Desipramine can increase heart rate, particularly at higher doses. If you experience palpitations, chest pain, or other symptoms of heart problems, seek medical attention promptly.
• Sweating: Some individuals may experience increased sweating while taking desipramine, particularly at night.

It’s essential to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend strategies to manage them effectively. Additionally, seek medical attention if you experience severe or concerning side effects while taking desipramine.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of desipramine:

• Storage: Store desipramine at room temperature away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as humidity can affect its stability. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of expired or unused desipramine properly. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, take them to a medication take-back program or follow specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek medical attention: If you suspect an overdose of desiccated thyroid or experience severe symptoms such as rapid heart rate, chest pain, confusion, seizures, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical assistance.
• Call emergency services: Contact emergency services or your local poison control center for guidance on how to manage the situation.

What other information should I know?

• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your progress regularly while taking desipramine, particularly at the beginning of treatment or when dosage adjustments are made.
• Avoid abrupt discontinuation: Do not stop taking desipramine abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider. Suddenly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a recurrence of depression.
• Inform healthcare providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your use of desipramine, including dentists and surgeons. Desipramine can interact with other medications and may require adjustments in treatment plans.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness and safety of desipramine and address any concerns or side effects.
• Medical alert: Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying a card indicating that you are taking desipramine, especially if you have a history of seizures or other medical conditions that may require emergency treatment.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the safe use of desipramine, you can minimize the risks and maximize the benefits of your treatment.