Generic Imipramine

Common use

Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant used primarily to treat symptoms of depression. It may also be prescribed to manage childhood enuresis (bedwetting) and, in some cases, anxiety or panic disorders. The medication works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and serotonin, in the brain. This helps improve mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels.

Dosage and direction

Imipramine is usually taken by mouth, once or multiple times daily, as prescribed. Dosage is typically started low and adjusted gradually based on therapeutic response and side effects. It can be taken with or without food but should be taken consistently at the same times each day. Do not stop taking imipramine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms may occur.

Precautions

Before using imipramine, inform your doctor if you have heart problems, glaucoma, seizures, urinary retention, or thyroid issues. This medication can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid alcohol and be cautious when driving. It may increase sensitivity to sunlight, so limit sun exposure and wear protective clothing. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects, especially confusion or low blood pressure.

Contraindications

Imipramine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to tricyclic antidepressants or who are recovering from a recent heart attack. It should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing them. Caution is advised in patients with a history of bipolar disorder, as it may trigger manic episodes. It is not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

Possible side effect

Common side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, drowsiness, and weight gain. Some users may experience increased heart rate, difficulty urinating, or dizziness. Rare but serious effects include arrhythmias, seizures, and suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults. Report any severe or persistent symptoms to a healthcare provider immediately.

Drug interaction

Imipramine may interact with a wide range of medications including MAO inhibitors, anticholinergics, antiarrhythmics, and CNS depressants. Combining it with alcohol or other sedatives can increase drowsiness. It may also affect the action of blood pressure medications and increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when used with SSRIs or SNRIs. Always inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Consistency is key for effectiveness.

Overdose

Overdose of imipramine can be dangerous and may lead to seizures, heart arrhythmias, severe drowsiness, confusion, or coma. In serious cases, it may be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Activated charcoal, gastric lavage, and cardiac monitoring may be used in emergency care. Never exceed your prescribed dose.

Storage

Store imipramine at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep it in a tightly sealed container, out of reach of children and pets. Do not store in the bathroom. Properly discard unused or expired medication according to local regulations.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)