Imipramine

1 medicine

Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant for depression, panic disorder, and childhood bedwetting; it is highly toxic in overdose and can cause fatal heart rhythm disturbances, so it must never be combined with an MAOI.

Tofranil

Imipramine

25/50/75mg

Tofranil is a antidepressants medication containing Imipramine, available as 25/50/75mg tablets.

from $0.43 / tablet View

Key facts

  • Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used for depression, panic disorder, and bedwetting in children.
  • Taken daily; the full antidepressant effect builds over 2 to 4 weeks.
  • It is highly toxic in overdose. It can cause life-threatening heart rhythm disturbances and seizures, and even a modest excess dose can be fatal.
  • Never combine it with an MAOI antidepressant; you need a 14-day gap when switching between the two drug types.

What imipramine treats

Imipramine treats major depression and panic disorder in adults. In children over six, it's used short-term for nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) that hasn't responded to other measures. It's also used off-label for some types of chronic nerve pain.

How imipramine works

Imipramine blocks the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine at nerve endings, leaving more of these mood-regulating chemicals available between nerve cells. It also blocks other receptors in the body, which is why it commonly causes dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and drowsiness alongside its intended effect.

Before you take it

  • Do not take imipramine within 14 days of an MAOI, or if you have had a recent heart attack or a heart rhythm disorder.
  • Tell your prescriber about glaucoma, urinary retention, seizures, or bipolar disorder, since imipramine can worsen these.
  • Alcohol intensifies drowsiness and other side effects.
  • Young people starting antidepressant treatment need close monitoring for worsening mood or new suicidal thoughts, particularly in the first few weeks.

Side effects

Common effects include dry mouth, constipation, drowsiness, blurred vision, dizziness, and weight gain.

Stop and seek urgent medical care for any of these:

  • A rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or fainting.
  • Seizures.
  • New or worsening suicidal thoughts, or severe agitation.
  • Confusion, especially in older adults.

Safety essentials

  • Overdose is a specific and serious danger: cardiotoxicity and seizures from too much imipramine can be fatal. Store it securely, never take extra doses, and keep it away from children.
  • Never combine imipramine with an MAOI; allow at least 14 days between stopping one and starting the other.
  • Get an ECG if you have heart disease, and report any palpitations, fainting, or chest pain promptly. Don't stop imipramine abruptly after long-term use.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.