desipramine (cont.)
SIDE EFFECTS: The most commonly encountered side effects associated with
desipramine include fast heart rate, blurred vision, urinary retention
(difficulty urinating), dry mouth, constipation, weight gain or loss, and
low
blood pressure upon arising that may cause light-headedness. Rash, hives,
seizures, and hepatitis are rare side effects. Desipramine also causes elevated
pressure in the eyes of some patients with glaucoma. Overdoses of desipramine
can cause life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms or seizures. Sexual
dysfunction also has been associated with desipramine.
Following prolonged therapy with high doses, abrupt discontinuation of TCAs,
including desipramine, could lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or
diarrhea. Therefore, many physicians recommend a gradual reduction in dose when
TCAs are discontinued.
Antidepressants increased the risk of
suicidal thinking and behavior in
short-term studies in children and adolescents with depression and other
psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of desipramine or any other
antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the clinical
need. Patients who are started on therapy should be closely observed for
clinical worsening, suicidal thinking or behavior, and unusual changes in
behavior.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 10/8/2009
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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