Used in the treatment of depression, Desipramine inhibits serotonin and the reuptake (reabsorption of a neurotransmitter) of norepinephrine. Similarly to other tricyclic antidepressants, Desipramine is useful in treating lesions and diseases which affect the somatosensory system (receptors that process touch, temperature, body position and pain). This is what we call neuropathic pain.
Along with Imipramine, Desipramine is one of the most powerful TCAs available and can also be used to treat other diseases such as ADD and ADHD but has been dropped since the introduction of SSRIs (class of compounds used in the treatment of depression and anxiety mainly).
It should be noted that death by overdose has been reported to be quite high in comparison to other TCAs as reported by the FDA and has been associated with breast cancer in women therefore extreme caution should be on the top of your importance list when using this drug. If you have ever suffered a stroke or heart attack then be sure to consult your doctor before taking Desipramine and let him/her know about your medical history.
Desipramine can be found under the brand names Norpramin and Pertofrane.
See below for a list of possible Desipramine side effects:
- Drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Dyschezia (infrequent or hard to pass bowel movements)
- Sexual dysfunction (in male mostly)
- Skin rashes, itchiness
- Fast heartbeats
- State of confusion