Key takeaways
Trimipramine and desipramine (Norpramin) are both tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) used to treat depression, but they have some differences. Trimipramine is thought to make your brain more sensitive to serotonin, while desipramine works by raising the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine. Trimipramine is usually taken in divided doses throughout the day or as a single dose at bedtime, whereas desipramine is typically taken once per day. Trimipramine can cause drowsiness, so it’s often taken at bedtime, while desipramine can cause either sleepiness or insomnia, depending on the person. Both medications can cause side effects like dry mouth, dizziness, and nausea, but desipramine can also cause weight gain and constipation. Additionally, desipramine might start to work within 2-5 days, but trimipramine can take several weeks to show effects. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics.
