RedBoxRX Pharmaceutical Guide by redboxrx.com

Imipramine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and Interactions

When working with Imipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant first approved in the 1950s for mood disorders. Also known as Tofranil, it blocks the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, boosting their levels in the brain and easing depressive symptoms. In practice, Imipramine is prescribed for major depressive disorder, certain anxiety states, and sometimes chronic pain, making it a versatile player in mental‑health care.

Imipramine belongs to the broader class of tricyclic antidepressants, medications that share a three‑ring chemical structure and similar pharmacologic actions. These drugs typically influence both serotonin and norepinephrine pathways, which explains why they can lift mood but also cause anticholinergic side effects like dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. Another closely linked condition is major depressive disorder, a common mood disorder marked by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and cognitive slowdown. Treating this disorder often starts with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, but when those fail or when patients have specific symptom profiles, clinicians may turn to Imipramine for its dual‑action benefits. However, the drug’s impact on cardiac conduction means doctors regularly check ECGs, especially for older adults or those with heart disease, because Imipramine can prolong the QT interval and raise the risk of arrhythmias.

Key Things to Watch: Dosage, Side Effects, and Interactions

Typical starting doses for Imipramine range from 25 mg to 50 mg taken at bedtime, with gradual increases up to 150 mg depending on response and tolerance. This slow titration helps mitigate the initial “antidepressant surge,” which can cause transient anxiety or insomnia. One of the most talked‑about side effects is the anticholinergic burden—feelings of dry mouth, urinary retention, and even mild cognitive blunting are common, especially at higher doses. Patients often ask about weight gain; while not as prevalent as with some newer agents, the metabolic slowdown caused by the drug’s antihistamine action can contribute to modest weight changes. Additionally, Imipramine interacts with several other medications: combining it with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can trigger dangerous serotonin syndrome, and it can boost blood levels of certain heart‑rate meds like propranolol, requiring dose adjustments.

Beyond the clinical details, the collection of articles below dives into real‑world scenarios that illustrate Imipramine’s role. You’ll find guidance on managing drug‑induced Parkinsonism with MAO‑B inhibitors, practical diet tips for appetite changes from targeted therapies, and step‑by‑step safety checks for buying generic medications online. While those topics span a range of drugs, each piece touches on the same themes that matter for Imipramine users: understanding mechanisms, monitoring side effects, and navigating safe access. Browse the list to get actionable insights, whether you’re starting treatment, adjusting a dose, or simply staying informed about the latest pharmacy trends.