Tofranil

Common Name: imipramine

How does Tofranil work?

Imipramine belongs to the class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). These medications are used for the treatment of depression. Imipramine helps improve symptoms of depression by increasing the amount of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin that are available in certain parts of the brain. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Tofranil?

The recommended starting dose for treatment of depression in adults is 25 mg three times daily, with or without food. This dose is usually increased gradually until the most effective dose is found. The maximum daily dose is 300 mg. It may take several weeks before the medication has its full effect so you should be patient with the results. Your doctor will try to eventually prescribe the lowest dose that is effective. Once this dose has been reached, you may be able to take your entire dose at bedtime as recommended by your doctor. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Tofranil come in?

Tofranil® is available in strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 75 mg. 25 mg: Each reddish-brown, sugar-coated, round tablet contains imipramine HCl 25 mg. 50 mg: Each reddish-brown, sugar-coated, round tablet, marked "Geigy" on one side and "LB" on the other side in white, contains imipramine HCl 50 mg. 75 mg: Each reddish-brown, sugar-coated, round tablet, marked "Geigy" on one side and "ATA" on the other side in white, contains imipramine HCl 75 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cellulose compounds, colloidal silicon dioxide, cornstarch, glycerin, iron oxides, lactose, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, povidone, stearic acid, sucrose, talc and titanium dioxide. This medication does not contain alcohol, bisulfite, gluten, parabens, sodium, or tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Tofranil?

Imipramine should not be used by anyone who: has a known or suspected allergy to the medication or its ingredients has taken a MAO inhibitor (e.g., moclobemide, phenelzine) in the previous 14 days has just had a heart attack has congestive heart failure has glaucoma

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Tofranil?

Dizziness: Use caution (i.e., move slowly) when rising from a sitting or lying position since imipramine can cause sudden temporary low blood pressure resulting in dizziness. Heart rhythm: Imipramine can cause abnormal heart rhythms, particularly when taken in high doses. Therefore, seniors and those with a history of heart disease should take imipramine with caution. Medical conditions: Imipramine should be used with caution by people with a history of seizures, reduced liver function, heart conditions, glaucoma, certain blood disorders, a history of mania or bipolar disorder, and those with a history of urinary retention. Occupational hazards: Imipramine may impair the mental or physical abilities required for the potentially hazardous tasks such as driving a car or operating machinery. Use appropriate caution until you determine how this medication affects you. Pregnancy: The safety of this medication for pregnant women has not been established. The potential benefits of using imipramine during pregnancy must be weighed against the possible risks. Breast-feeding: Imipramine passes into breast milk. Because imipramine may cause serious side effects for nursing infants, a decision should be made to stop nursing or stop the medication.