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Compare Lidoderm vs. Desipramine

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Lidoderm (lidocaine 5% patch) and Norpramin (desipramine) are both prescription medications that treat nerve pain, but they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. Lidoderm is used to relieve nerve pain from shingles, known as postherpetic neuralgia, by numbing the skin. Norpramin, on the other hand, is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used to treat depression by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. It's also used off-label for certain types of nerve pain. Lidoderm is applied topically as a patch and can be worn for up to 12 hours, while Norpramin is taken orally, usually once a day. Common side effects of Lidoderm include skin irritation and redness, while Norpramin can cause sleepiness, confusion, and weight gain. Additionally, Norpramin has more serious risks, such as suicidal thoughts and heart problems, and it interacts with a wider range of medications compared to Lidoderm.

  • Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
    Desipramine (Norpramin)
  • Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
    Desipramine (Norpramin)

  • Summary of Lidoderm vs. Desipramine

    Summary for Local anesthetic
    Prescription only

    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
    Prescription only

    Desipramine (Norpramin) is an tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it's not a first-choice medication for this condition. Desipramine (Norpramin) is taken by mouth, typically once per day. Side effects of this medication include sleepiness, confusion, and weight gain. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking desipramine (Norpramin) because doing so can worsen side effects.

  • Indications of Lidoderm vs. Desipramine

    Indications for
    •Nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)
    Indications for
    •Depression

  • Pros and Cons of Lidoderm vs. Desipramine

    Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
    Pros
    •Works directly on the skin
    •Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
    •Can cut patches to fit the area of pain
    Cons
    •Commonly causes skin irritation
    •Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch
    •Might interact with many medications
    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Comes in many different strengths, which makes dose adjustments easier
    •Can be taken just once a day
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice treatment option because of side effects
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms, like headache and nausea, if you suddenly stop taking it
    •Can raise risk of suicidal thinking in children, teens, and young adults

  • Common Side Effects of Lidoderm vs. Desipramine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blisters
    •Bruising
    •Burning sensation
    •Changes in skin color
    •Rash or redness
    •Swelling
    •Peeling or flaking skin
    •Itching
    •Small bumps or spots
    •Tiny red or purple dots under the skin
    •Tingling or numbness in the area
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dry mouth
    •Blurry vision
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Confusion
    •Anxiety
    •Restlessness

  • Warnings of Lidoderm vs. Desipramine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Absorbing too much medication
    •Accidental poisoning in children or pets
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
    •Glaucoma
    •Higher risk of falls
    •Seizures

  • Prices with our coupons for Lidoderm vs. Desipramine

    Learn more about Lidocaine 5% patch
    Learn more about Desipramine

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