Desipramine Hydrochloride
Desipramine Hydrochloride is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used to treat major depressive disorder. It works by increasing levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain through reuptake inhibition. While less commonly prescribed today due to side effect concerns, it may be used when other antidepressants have been ineffective.
A tricyclic antidepressant that helps relieve depression by increasing brain norepinephrine and serotonin levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203174
- Generic
- Desipramine Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Norpramin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primarily prescribed for major depressive disorder; may also be used off-label for neuropathic pain, ADHD, and certain anxiety disorders. May be considered when other antidepressants have not provided adequate relief.
Functions as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor with relatively weak serotonin effects. It blocks the reabsorption (reuptake) of these neurotransmitters in the brain, allowing them to remain active longer and improve mood and emotional state.
Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, drowsiness, and weight changes. Requires regular monitoring for cardiac effects and should not be stopped abruptly. Contraindicated shortly after MAO inhibitor use and requires careful dose adjustments in certain populations. Suicide risk monitoring is important, especially when starting therapy.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy