Desipramine (Norpramin).
c.
(1) Uses. Desipramine is used to treat depression. It has also been used
in facilitating withdrawal from cocaine.
(2) Adverse effects. Desipramine is closely related to imipramine but has
only minimal cardiovascular, CNS, GI, and anticholinergic effects.
(3)
Cautions and warnings.
(a) Abruptly taking the drug away from the patient after long-term
therapy may produce withdrawal symptoms.
(b)
The drug may produce drowsiness.
(c)
The patient should not consume any alcohol while taking the drug.
(d) The drug should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma or
urinary retention because of its anticholinergic effects.
Amitriptyline Hydrochloride (Elavil).
d.
(1) Uses. Amitriptyline is used in the treatment of depression and
neuropathic pain syndromes.
(2) Adverse effects. Amitriptyline tends to cause confusion in elderly
patients. In addition, it has other adverse effects that are similar to those produced by
imipramine hydrochloride.
(3)
Cautions and warnings.
(a) Abruptly taking the drug away from the patient after long-term
therapy may produce withdrawal symptoms.
(b)
The drug may produce drowsiness.
(c)
The patient should not consume any alcohol while taking the drug.
(d) The drug should be used with caution in patients who have
glaucoma or urinary retention due to its anticholinergic effects.
(4)
Precautions. Amitriptyline can be cardiotoxic to some individuals.
MD0804
9-12
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