What is Desipramine?

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you are allergic to it, or to other tricyclic antidepressants (such as imipramine or amitriptyline), or if you have any other kind of allergies. Some inactive ingredients present in this product may lead to complications or other problems.

Tell your doctor about the medical history, especially if you have: breathing problems, a personal or family history of glaucoma, diabetes, eating disorders, heart problems, liver problems, kidney problems, a personal or family history of other mood conditions, seizures, an overactive thyroid, trouble urinating, any condition that may increase your risk of seizures, or certain types of tumors.

It has been linked to a heart rhythm disorder (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can cause serious irregular heartbeat and other symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

If you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation, your risk of QT prolongation may be increased. Before taking this, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, as well as if you have any of the following conditions: specific heart problems, a family history of specific heart problems.

Low potassium and magnesium levels in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. If you use certain drugs or have conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting, your risk of developing this condition may increase. Consult your doctor about how to use it safely.

Get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position to reduce dizziness and lightheadedness.

If you are a diabetic patient, this medication might make it more difficult to control your blood sugar. If you experience symptoms such as increased thirst or urination, contact your doctor right away. Your diabetes medication and exercise program may need to be adjusted by your doctor.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the drug's side effects, particularly dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, difficulty urinating, mental/emotional changes, and heart effects such as QT prolongation. Dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion can all increase the likelihood of a fall.

When administering this medication to children, use caution.

During pregnancy, this medication should not be used. Infants born to mothers who took similar medications during pregnancy may experience symptoms such as difficulty urinating, excessive sleepiness, shaking, and seizures.

This medication might pass in breast milk and may have unfavorable effects on a nursing infant. Before breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.

Interactions

Drug interactions can transform the way your medications function or put you at risk for serious side effects. Disopyramide, anticholinergics (including atropine, belladonna alkaloids, and scopolamine), certain blood pressure medications (such as clonidine, guanadrel, and guanethidine), digoxin, thyroid supplements, and valproic acid are examples of products that may interact with this medication.

Using MAO inhibitors in conjunction with this medication may result in a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors. Most MAO inhibitors should also be avoided for two weeks prior to and following treatment with this medication. Consult your doctor about when to begin or stop taking this medication.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take one of the dosages, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose and proceed with your daily schedule. To cope up with a missed dose, do not take a double dose.

Overdose

Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body’s functions.

Storage

Exposure of medicine to heat, air, and light may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.

Desipramine vs Amitriptyline

Citations