Desipramine

A tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that acts primarily as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Use has declined in favor of newer ADHD drugs.

Dosage by Body Weight

Pediatric dose: 1-3 mg/kg/day. **Requires baseline and follow-up ECGs** to monitor for cardiac arrhythmias.

Body Weight
Over 30 kg
Dose
25 mg to 50 mg
Frequency
Once daily or divided
Tracking Notes
High risk in overdose; keep securely stored.

Weight-based dosage tracking table for Desipramine, including body weight, dose, frequency, and tracking notes.
Body Weight	Dose	Frequency	Tracking Notes
Over 30 kg	25 mg to 50 mg	Once daily or divided	High risk in overdose; keep securely stored.

Formulation

Tablet

Purpose

Treatment of ADHD (off-label) and nocturnal enuresis in older children and adolescents.

Generic Name

Desipramine Hydrochloride

Branded Drug Names

Desipramine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:

Norpramin

Scheduled Drug

Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.

Alternatives

Imipramine Atomoxetine

Safety Advice

Alcohol

UNSAFE

Desipramine: Alcohol can worsen drowsiness, mood changes, impaired judgment, or heart rhythm effects. Avoid alcohol unless your prescriber confirms it is safe.

Pregnancy

CAUTION

Desipramine: Use in pregnancy only when prescribed after weighing mental health benefits and medicine-specific risks.

Breast Feeding

CAUTION

Desipramine: May pass into breast milk. Use while breastfeeding only with specialist guidance and infant monitoring.

Driving

CAUTION

Desipramine: May cause sleepiness, dizziness, slowed reaction time, or concentration changes. Avoid driving if affected.

Liver

CAUTION

Desipramine: Use caution in liver disease because several psychiatric or sedating medicines are processed by the liver.

Kidney

CAUTION

Desipramine: Kidney disease may require monitoring or dose adjustment for some medicines in this group.