Imipramine

Uses

This medication is prescribed for the treatment of depression and bedwetting (enuresis).

IUPAC name: 3-(5,6-dihydrobenzo[b][1]benzazepine-11-yl)-N,N-dimethylpropan-1-amine

Drug class:  Tricyclic antidepressant 

Route of administration: Oral

Is it a drug that needs a prescription? YES

Is it an OTC drug? NO

Mechanism of action

This drug inhibits norepinephrine and serotonin neuronal reuptake into the brain. As a result, norepinephrine and serotonin levels rise, activating more neurons and helping in the restoration and maintenance of mental stability and treatment of depression.

This drug also prevents bedwetting. This medication is thought to have a relaxing effect on the bladder, it may be able to comfortably store more urine.

 Side effects

It may cause nausea, headache, drowsiness, dry mouth, weight changes, constipation, loss of appetite, dizziness, blurred vision, excessive sweating, problem with urination, stomach pain, fast heart rate, fatigue.

Precautions

Before using this medication, take the following precautions and notify your doctor:

If you are allergic to it, or if you have other allergies,or if you are allergic to other tricyclic antidepressants (including amitriptyline, trimipramine, clomipramine),

If you are taking any other medication (prescribed, non-prescribed, or herbal products),

If you have a history of lung/breathing disease (including bronchitis, asthma), cardiac disease (heart attack, congestive heart failure, kidney problems, hypertension), diabetes, eating disorders (including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa), bipolar disorder/manic depression, angle closure glaucoma, problems with urination, stroke, brain/head injury, hypothyroidism, seizures,

Use of this medication may cause angle-closure glaucoma (a type of eye problem). Consult your doctor about an eye exam.

If you have low blood levels of magnesium, potassium, or sodium, you may be more likely to experience QT prolongation (extended intervals between cardiac contraction and relaxation) when taking this medication.

If you have diabetes, using this medication may make it more difficult to regulate your blood sugar levels.

If you have undergone any type of surgery, or electroshock therapy,

Limit your alcohol usage since it increases your chances of developing blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. It may also cause a loss of alertness.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure; always wear sunscreen when going outside in the sun because imipramine makes your skin sensitive to sunlight.

This drug’s adverse effects are more severe in older adults and children.

Consult your doctor if you are pregnant.

Use of this medication is not recommended while breastfeeding.