Imipramine, marketed under the brand name Tofranil, is a prescription medication employed to manage various medical conditions. It belongs to the drug class known as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)—imipramine acts by affecting the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain.

Please note that a licensed healthcare provider's prescription is required for this medication.

Imipramine is primarily prescribed for the treatment of depression.

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is a type of mood disorder that negatively affects how you think, behave, and feel. Untreated depression can lead to a range of emotional and physical issues. Other mental conditions, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, can cause depression. Symptoms of depression can make it challenging to carry out day-to-day tasks and maintain personal relationships.

In addition to its use as a treatment for depression, imipramine is prescribed to treat bedwetting (enuresis) in children.

Enuresis, often called bedwetting, is a common medical condition characterized by the involuntary release of urine during sleep, particularly at night. This condition can affect individuals of various ages, including children and, in some cases, adults. Enuresis is typically considered a normal developmental phase in young children, but it may require medical attention when it persists beyond a certain age or reoccurs in older individuals. The causes of enuresis can vary, and it may be associated with factors such as genetics, delayed bladder maturation, or underlying medical or psychological conditions.

Imipramine is classified as a tricyclic antidepressant. These drugs function by affecting the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. This action helps to regulate mood and reduce anxiety.

Imipramine’s effect on bedwetting is not fully understood, though it has been approved by the FDA as an adjunctive therapy for this condition in children.

While using imipramine, some individuals may experience side effects, although not everyone will.

Common, mild side effects may include:

• Dry mouth
  
• Constipation
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Dizziness
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Increased appetite
  
• Weight gain
  
• Stomach upset
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Fever symptoms
  
• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Confusion/ disorientation
  
• Muscle spasms
  
• Glaucoma
  
  

It's essential to consult your healthcare provider if you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about taking this medication.

Before starting treatment with imipramine, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with imipramine.

Tell your provider if you have or have had:

• Heart problems
  
• Liver disease
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Seizures
  
• Glaucoma
  
• An enlarged prostate
  
• Thyroid disorders
  
• Mental/mood conditions
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using imipramine to assess potential risks and benefits.

Imipramine cannot be used by those who take an MAOI medication or within 14 days of previous use. Imipramine can also cause serotonin syndrome, especially when taken with other serotonergic drugs.

Imipramine is commonly supplied as an oral capsules or tablets. The recommended dosing of oral imipramine may vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for your situation.

It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosing and any other recommendations related to taking oral imipramine. Typically, imipramine is taken with or without food, and dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual responses and clinical assessments.

Do not discontinue or increase your imipramine dosage without consulting your doctor first.

Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of imipramine.

Imipramine is available by prescription only. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this medication.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can assess your eligibility and prescribe oral imipramine if it's appropriate for your medical condition and needs. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether oral imipramine might be right for you.

Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment.