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Imipramine

Generic: Imipramine Hydrochloride

Rx only
Tricyclic antidepressant✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗
Imipramine is a medication used to help relieve symptoms of depression and can also assist children aged 6 and older with bedwetting, known as enuresis. It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that help improve mood and reduce the urge to urinate at night. For adults, the starting dose is usually 75 mg per day, which can be increased to a maximum of 150 mg, while children typically start with 25 mg before bedtime, with a maximum of 75 mg. It's important to know that this medication can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in younger patients, so close monitoring is essential. Additionally, imipramine should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, a type of antidepressant, as this combination can lead to serious side effects.
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Uses

  • Depression.
  • Childhood enuresis.
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Dosage

Adults: Start with 75 mg/day, increase to 150 mg/day.
Hospitalized patients: Start with 100 mg/day, increase to 200 mg/day.
Children (6 years and older): Start with 25 mg/day before bedtime.
If no response in one week, increase to 50 mg for children under 12.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects

Common

Nervousnesssleep disorderstirednessmild gastrointestinal disturbancesHeart issues

Serious

hallucinationsseizuresallergic reactionsjaundice
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Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children and young adults.
  • Monitor for worsening depression or unusual behavior changes.
  • Not approved for use in children under 6 years.
  • Use caution in patients with cardiovascular disease.
  • May cause hyponatremia, especially in elderly patients.
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Drug interactions

  • Cimetidinemay increase imipramine levelsCaution
  • Fluoxetinemay increase imipramine levelsCaution
  • Barbituratesmay decrease imipramine levelsCaution
  • Alcoholmay enhance sedation effectsCaution
  • Anticholinergic drugsmay increase side effects.Caution

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).