Imipramine Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Imipramine Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Tofranil
Drug Class
- Tricyclic Antidepressant
Chemical Formula
C19H24N2.HCl
Molecular Weight
316.86 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine
Indications
- Depression
- Enuresis
- Chronic pain disorders
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Capsule
Typical Dosage
- 25-150 mg per day in divided doses
Pediatric Dosage
- Starting dose: 10 mg/day, maximum dose: 2.5 mg/kg/day
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower initial doses due to increased risk of adverse effects
Side Effects
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Weight gain
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to tricyclic antidepressants
- Recent heart attack
- Use of MAOIs
Pregnancy Category
- Category D - Risk of fetal harm
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, potential for adverse effects
Drug Interactions
- MAOIs
- SSRIs
- Alcohol
Overdose Symptoms
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Convulsions
- Coma
Antidote for Overdose
- Sodium Bicarbonate
- Physostigmine
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Crosses the placenta, enters breast milk
- Metabolism: Primarily hepatic
- Excretion: Mainly in urine
Precautions
- Monitor cardiac function in patients with preexisting cardiac conditions
Warnings
- May increase suicidal thoughts in children and young adults