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Maprotiline vs. Desipramine

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

Key takeaways

Maprotiline and desipramine are both medications used to treat depression, but they belong to different classes. Maprotiline was a tetracyclic antidepressant, but is no longer available in the U.S. Desipramine, sold under the brand name Norpramin, is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Maprotiline was also used for anxiety associated with depression, but it has been discontinued. Desipramine is still available and is typically taken once a day, with doses adjusted based on your response and side effects. Desipramine is available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of desipramine include sleepiness, confusion, and weight gain, and it can interact with alcohol and other medications.

Maprotiline

 

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Desipramine

(Norpramin)

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Summary for Maprotiline

Prescription only

Maprotiline is an antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety associated with depression. It's no longer available in the United States because it was discontinued.

Indications for Maprotiline

  • Depression
  • Anxiety from depression

Pros and Cons for Maprotiline

Pros

Cons

Summary for Desipramine

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 for Desipramine

Pros and Cons for Desipramine

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

Common Side Effects for Desipramine

  • Dry mouth
  • Blurry vision
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Anxiety
  • Restlessness

Warnings for Desipramine

  • 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 Maprotiline vs. Desipramine

Price Card Drug Icon
Maprotiline30 tablets / 50mg
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Price Card Drug Icon
Desipramine90 tablets / 25mg
$29.82-
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