Estimation of the association between desipramine and the risk for sudden death in 5- to 14-year-old children.

Abstract

Although, based on our estimates, the evidence for an association between desipramine and sudden death in children aged 5 to 14 years appears weak, replication of our findings is needed with a more precise numerator (total number of deaths) and denominator (the appropriate conversion from drug appearance to actual exposure) before a firm conclusion on this subject can be drawn. Until then, even if remote, the possibility of an association between desipramine and sudden death in children stresses the importance of assessing risks and benefits when desipramine is used in pediatric patients.