What is Norpramin (desipramine)?

Norpramin is one of the medications known as tricyclic antidepressants. This medication has been widely studied and was found to have positive results for cocaine addicts. It was found to be helpful in maintaining abstinence but not for initiating abstinence.

Uses for Norpramin

Norpramin is used to treat depression by increasing the amounts of norepinephrine in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake. It has also been used to help patients with the treatment of ADHD. This drug has been shown to treat symptoms of cocaine withdrawal and may be prescribed in drug rehab facilities for the dual diagnosis treatment of depression and addiction. It has been used to treat chronic pain as well. It is not recommended for use on people with bipolar disorder or with mania or hypomania. It may lower risk of seizure but is not advisable for use in patients who have had previous seizures during alcohol withdrawal.

Side Effects of Norpramin

• Weakness
• Nightmares
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Excessive sweating
• Blurred vision

More Serious Side Effects

• Jaw, neck and back muscle spasms
• Difficulty speaking
• Shuffling walk
• Irregular heartbeat

Norpramin may cause some people to experience a change in behavior or become seriously depressed to the extent of having suicidal thoughts. This drug should not be taken with MAOIs or if you have recently stopped taking MAOIs. For more information on MAOIs, see antidepressants.

Norpramin Withdrawal Symptoms

• Headaches
• Nausea
• General discomfort and feeling ill

This medication will increase side effects of alcohol and other drugs such as allergy medication, sedatives, tranquilizers and seizure medications.