Imipramine – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & More
When working with Imipraminea long‑standing antidepressant that belongs to the tricyclic classTofranil, you’re dealing with a drug that lifts mood by boosting norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. It’s a member of the tricyclic antidepressants family, which share a similar chemical backbone and mechanism. The primary condition it targets is major depressive disorder, though clinicians also prescribe it for anxiety, chronic pain, and nocturnal enuresis in children. In short, Imipramine is a versatile option when mood‑lifting power and off‑label flexibility matter.
What to Know About Dosing, Benefits, and Risks
Starting doses usually begin at 25 mg nightly, slowly rising to 150 mg split between morning and evening based on response and tolerance. Because the drug is well‑absorbed, food doesn’t majorly affect its levels, but a steady schedule helps keep blood concentrations stable. Beyond treating depression, Imipramine can relieve certain types of neuropathic pain and help with irritable‑bowel‑syndrome symptoms, making it a handy tool for clinicians who need a multi‑purpose agent. However, the same chemistry that lifts mood also brings anticholinergic side effects – dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and urinary retention. Patients often notice these within the first week, so doctors usually start low and watch closely. Other common issues include dizziness, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction, all of which should be discussed before therapy begins.
Because Imipramine influences serotonin, it can interact with other serotonergic meds like SSRIs or MAO inhibitors, raising the risk of serotonin syndrome – a potentially life‑threatening condition marked by agitation, rapid heart rate, and high fever. It also inhibits certain liver enzymes (CYP2D6), so combining it with drugs metabolized by that pathway may raise their levels unexpectedly. Regular blood pressure checks are wise, as the drug can cause orthostatic hypotension, especially in older adults. Monitoring labs, reviewing medication lists, and educating patients on warning signs create a safer experience. Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that break down each of these points in detail, from dosing charts to side‑effect management tips, giving you a full picture of how to use Imipramine effectively.
A practical comparison of Tofranil (imipramine) with modern antidepressants, covering how it works, side‑effects, dosing, cost and when it's the right choice.
Sep, 28 2025