Norpramin

Norpramin is a prescription drug that is licensed for the treatment of depression. Although it is not entirely clear how Norpramin works, it is believed that the antidepressant allows certain chemicals in the brain (serotonin and norepinephrine) to stay in the brain longer. Norpramin comes in tablet form and is generally taken one to four times a day. Side effects of Norpramin may include drowsiness, constipation, and dizziness.

 

What Is Norpramin?

Norpramin® (desipramine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that is used to treat depression (also known as major depression or clinical depression).
 
(Click Norpramin Uses for more information on what Norpramin is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Norpramin?

Norpramin is made by Sanofi-Aventis. Generic Norpramin is made by several manufacturers of generic medications.
 

How Does Norpramin Work?

Norpramin belongs to a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants. It is not entirely clear how Norpramin works. However, it is known that the medicine affects several chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and norepinephrine. It is thought that perhaps Norpramin allows these chemical to stay in the brain longer, which can help with depression symptoms.
 

When and How to Take Norpramin

Some considerations for when and how to take Norpramin include:
 
  • Norpramin comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth one to four times daily.
     
  • It does not matter if you take Norpramin with or without food. If the medicine upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
     
  • Norpramin should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the medication in your blood.
     
  • For Norpramin to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. The medicine will not work if you stop taking it.
     
(Norpramin Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;