Adrenergic-receptor desensitization and course of clinical improvement with desipramine treatment.

alpha 2-Adrenergic receptor sensitivity was assessed during desipramine treatment by carefully monitoring clonidine-induced blood pressure changes, as well as symptomatology, in three patients with major depressive disorder. The data appear to be consistent with the hypothesis that the antidepressant action of desipramine is mediated by alpha 2-autoreceptor desensitization.