Norpramin (Desipramine) Signs, Symptoms And Side Effects

Signs, Symptoms And Side Effects Of Norpramin (Desipramine) Abuse

Desipramine is the brand name for the antidepressant Norpramin. Desipramine is prescribed to help treat forms of major depression, which alter mood and daily activities. It also aids in the treatment of ADHD. Desipramine affects each person differently, making some feel sleepy while others may feel alert and awake.
Desipramine may take up to three weeks to begin working; therefore, it is very important to follow the instructions provided by a doctor. Never exceed or decrease the prescribed dosage amount. If one takes the medication more frequently than prescribed, the risk of side effects increases greatly.

What Is Norpramin (Desipramine)?

Norpramin is a prescribed antidepressant primarily used to treat most forms of major depression but can also be used for ADHD, insomnia and other problems related to mental health.

Depression typically causes a chemical imbalance in the brain, causing a reduction of two common neurotransmitters called norepinephrine and serotonin. Both hormones work to maintain and regulate mood, sleep and digestion. Norpramin works to block the process of reuptake, which absorbs neurotransmitters back into the brain. By blocking reuptake, Norpramin keeps the needed number of hormones to maintain a better mood.

A healthcare provider will normally prescribe a smaller dosage to start, ranging from 75 to 150 mg per day and is taken one to three times daily. After regular substance use, one’s body will begin to adjust to the medication and chemical changes. A healthcare provider may increase the daily dosage to 100 to 200 mg, depending on the severity of the patient’s depression. In more serious forms of depression, the dosage may increase to 300 mg per day, after adjusting accordingly.

While taking Norpramin, it’s common for one to experience side effects like headaches, dry mouth, nervousness, increased appetite and trouble sleeping. The list of side effects varies from person to person, and some may have a different experience. Taking more than the prescribed dosage can lead to serious symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, muscle stiffness, shakiness/tremors, agitation, trouble urinating and a numbness/tingling feeling in the hands and feet.

To avoid substance use disorder of Norpramin, carefully follow the instructions for use. Contact a healthcare provider if these side effects worsen

Norpramin (Desipramine) Addiction

Many clinical studies have shown that Norpramin can help regulate chemical imbalances and relieve symptoms of addiction to other major drugs. It has been used to help alleviate cocaine cravings and bulimia-related problems, like binge eating.
Norpramin normally isn’t addicting; however, withdrawal symptoms can occur if the medication is stopped abruptly. Withdrawal symptoms of Norpramin are nausea, headaches and fatigue. The sudden stoppage may also result in increased or worsened suicidal thoughts, though it is more common in people with severe depression. It is best to develop a tapering plan with a healthcare provider to help avoid severe withdrawal symptoms. One must continue taking Norpramin, even if they feel better.
Overdose is possible for a person with substance use disorder. Two signs of an overdose of Norpramin are seizures and coma.

Norpramin (Desipramine) Long-Term Effects

If a person is prescribed desipramine for long-term, active use, they must carefully follow directions provided by a healthcare provider and disclose all important information. Desipramine has been known to cause seizures in people with substance use disorder. Anyone with a history of epileptic activity should be monitored closely.

New or worsened depression and anxiety have been linked to long-term effects of desipramine. Other common long-term effects are swelling and redness within the eye, causing vision problems, irregular heartbeat and increased blood pressure.

Desipramine has a negative interaction with other medications, such as sedatives, cold medicines, narcotics, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers and alcohol. The following list of medications has been affected by desipramine: barbiturates, antibiotics, blood pressure medications, Levodopa, Cimetidine, Methylphenidate and diabetes medications.

If any of these medications have been taken in the past, one must inform their healthcare provider to avoid negative interactions.

Desipramine may be transferred through breast milk, so any lactating mother should consult their doctor before taking the drug. No information shows desipramine to cause birth defects in pregnant women, though clinical studies have been performed on animals. The results led to many cases of stillbirth, underweight birth and limb deformities. Speak with a doctor before continuing use.

If you or a loved one are seeing these side effects from desipramine, don’t delay. Contact us to learn more about the road to recovery. We can help you overcome your addiction today.