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Compare Pamelor vs. Desipramine

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

Key takeaways

Nortriptyline (Pamelor) and desipramine (Norpramin) are both tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) used to treat depression, but they have some differences. Nortriptyline is available in both capsule and liquid forms, while desipramine only comes in tablet form. Nortriptyline is typically taken three to four times a day, whereas desipramine is usually taken once daily. Nortriptyline may take 6 to 8 weeks to show full effects, while desipramine might start working within 2 to 3 weeks. Both medications can cause side effects like dry mouth, nausea, and dizziness, but desipramine is more likely to cause weight gain. Nortriptyline is noted for having fewer side effects compared to other TCAs, while desipramine is not a first-choice treatment due to its side effects. Both medications carry risks of suicidal thoughts, especially in younger individuals, and should not be stopped suddenly without consulting a healthcare provider.

  • Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
    Desipramine (Norpramin)
  • Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
    Desipramine (Norpramin)

  • Summary of Pamelor vs. Desipramine

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It's approved to treat depression in adults. This medication is also often prescribed off-label to treat certain types of nerve pain. Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is available as a capsule and liquid that are taken by mouth. Side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, and possible weight gain. This medication is available under the brand name Pamelor and as a generic.

    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 Pamelor vs. Desipramine

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Depression

  • Pros and Cons of Pamelor vs. Desipramine

    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Available as a capsule and liquid
    •Taken by mouth once per day, or split into smaller doses throughout the day
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice option for depression because of side effects
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it after long-term use
    •Not recommended for children
    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 Pamelor vs. Desipramine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blurred vision
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Stomach upset
    •Loss of appetite
    •Numbness in the hands or feet
    •Rash
    •Itching
    •Changes in blood pressure
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dry mouth
    •Blurry vision
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Confusion
    •Anxiety
    •Restlessness

  • Warnings of Pamelor vs. Desipramine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression and risk for suicidal thoughts and unusual behavior
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Dizziness and drowsiness
    •Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
    •Glaucoma
    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 Pamelor vs. Desipramine

    Learn more about Nortriptyline
    Learn more about Desipramine

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