Imipramine tablets and capsules are a tricyclic antidepressant medication of the dibenzazepine group. It works on the norepinephrine and serotonin systems of the brain and spinal cord. When these systems are working correctly normal sensations travel easily from and to the brain. When they are not working correctly the brain can misinterpret these sensations leading to depression and pain. Because of the powerful effects on these pathways Imipramine is often prescribed for depression, anxiety , ADD/ADHD, bed wetting and numerous other mental and physical conditions. It is similar in structure to some muscle relaxants, and has a significant anelgisic effect and thus is often useful in treatments of pain.

Imipramine was the first tricyclic antidepressant developed in the late 1950s by Ciba-Geigy and was initially used to treat psychotic disorders but was found to induce and exacerbate psychosis. It is also known to cause a high rate of manic and hypomanic reactions, especially in patients with a preexisting bipolar disorder.

Fast Facts:

1. Brand Name Tofranil
2. The first tricyclic antidepressant
3. Some side effects include: blurred vision, hallucinations, palpitations, confusion, seizures, sexual difficulties, difficulty breathing, fainting, stomach pain, weight gain, dry mouth
4. Withdrawal symptoms: nausea, headache and malaise
5. Well known to induce and exacerbate psychosis
6. Known to cause a high rate of manic and hypomanic reactions
7. Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine
8. Can be used to treat some pain conditions
9. Also used to treat bed wetting in children

Disclaimer: The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking Imipramine .