Imipramine Medications

Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression and nocturnal enuresis by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain.

Tofranil

Imipramine

$0.35 per pill

25 | 50 | 75mg

Select pack

What to Know About Imipramine

Imipramine belongs to the tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) class and is primarily prescribed for major depressive disorder and certain anxiety-related conditions. By inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, it increases the availability of these neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, leading to mood improvement. Imipramine is marketed worldwide under brand names such as Tofranil, Anafranil (for obsessive-compulsive disorder), and Supratricyclic formulations, while generic versions are widely available. In Singapore the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) approved imipramine for depression in 1975, and later extensions allowed its use for enuresis in children and for chronic neuropathic pain in specific clinical settings. Although the drug’s primary indication is depression, clinicians sometimes employ it off-label for nocturnal enuresis and certain chronic pain syndromes when evidence supports benefit. Understanding the pharmacology, dosing options, and safety considerations can help patients make informed choices, especially when seeking to buy Imipramine online through reputable channels.

What is Imipramine?

Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that acts on monoamine neurotransmission. The FDA first approved it in 1959 for major depressive disorder, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) subsequently confirmed its efficacy for the same indication. The Health Sciences Authority of Singapore incorporated these assessments into its national drug registry, allowing imipramine to be dispensed throughout the country. At the molecular level, imipramine blocks the serotonin transporter (SERT) and norepinephrine transporter (NET), which slows the reabsorption of these neurotransmitters back into presynaptic neurons. The resulting increase in synaptic serotonin and norepinephrine enhances mood and reduces anxiety. Imipramine is distributed under several brand names, including Tofranil and Anafranil, and is also sold as an inexpensive generic tablet, which can be purchased from our online pharmacy with the same therapeutic quality as the branded versions.

How Imipramine Works

Mechanism of Action

Imipramine binds competitively to SERT and NET proteins on neuronal membranes, preventing the clearance of serotonin and norepinephrine from the synaptic cleft. This inhibition raises extracellular concentrations of both neurotransmitters, which in turn modulates downstream receptors involved in mood regulation. The drug also exhibits modest antagonism of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, histamine H1 receptors, and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, contributing to its side-effect profile.

Therapeutic Effects

By sustaining higher levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, imipramine restores the balance of mood-related pathways that are often depleted in depression. The enhanced neurotransmission improves neuroplasticity, stabilizes circadian rhythms, and reduces the hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, collectively alleviating depressive symptoms and anxiety.

Onset and Duration

Clinical trials report that measurable antidepressant effects appear after 2-4 weeks of daily dosing, with peak efficacy typically reached by week 6-8. The drug’s half-life ranges from 12 to 30 hours, allowing once-daily administration for most patients. Steady-state concentrations are generally achieved after five to seven days of consistent dosing.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Imipramine is indicated for adults with moderate to severe depression, as confirmed by the FDA and EMA.
Enuresis (Bedwetting) in Children: The HSA lists imipramine as a second-line option for refractory nocturnal enuresis in pediatric patients aged 6 years and older.
Chronic Neuropathic Pain: In some European guidelines, imipramine is recommended as an adjunct for neuropathic pain when first-line agents are insufficient.

Off-Label Uses

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Although Anafranil is a branded formulation approved for OCD in the United States, imipramine’s pharmacology supports off-label use in patients unresponsive to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Small-scale studies published in the Journal of Affective Disorders indicate symptom reduction with low-dose imipramine, but this application remains unapproved by major regulatory agencies.

Clinical Efficacy

A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated a 58 % response rate in patients receiving imipramine versus 31 % with placebo after eight weeks of treatment. For nocturnal enuresis, a meta-analysis in Pediatrics showed a 70 % reduction in wet nights among children treated with imipramine compared with 25 % in control groups.

Buying Imipramine from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Our pharmacy service eliminates geographic barriers, delivering high-quality imipramine directly to your doorstep while preserving confidentiality. The platform streamlines verification, ensuring that each shipment complies with Singapore’s regulatory standards and follows international Good Manufacturing Practices.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Tofranil (brand)
Anafranil (brand, OCD formulation)
Imipramine Hydrochloride (generic)
Supra-imipramine (generic extended-release)
**CNS-Imipramine (generic, bulk pack)

Generic tablets typically cost 45-60 % less than branded counterparts, offering the same active ingredient and bioavailability.

Quality & Safety

We partner with licensed international pharmacies that adhere to WHO-prequalified manufacturing criteria, guaranteeing purity, potency, and consistent release profiles.

Pricing & Access

Competitive pricing, combined with a lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, makes long-term therapy more affordable. Shipping is discreet, and orders are processed within 24 hours of payment.

Discreet Delivery

Express delivery arrives in approximately 7 days, while standard shipping may take up to 3 weeks. Packages are sealed in neutral-colored boxes without any medication identifiers, protecting your privacy.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Imipramine is supplied as oral tablets in strengths of 10 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg. An extended-release capsule (75 mg) is also marketed for patients requiring smoother plasma fluctuations.

Typical Dosing Ranges

For adults with major depressive disorder, clinicians often initiate therapy at 25 mg once daily, increasing by 25 mg increments every one to two weeks until a therapeutic dose of 150-200 mg per day is attained. In pediatric enuresis, low doses such as 25 mg at bedtime are commonly employed. Dosage adjustments are guided by efficacy, tolerability, and individual metabolic considerations.

Administration Guidelines

Imipramine should be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal irritation, although absorption is not markedly altered by meals. Extended-release capsules are best swallowed whole with a full glass of water; crushing or chewing may compromise the controlled-release mechanism. Patients are advised to maintain a consistent dosing time each day to stabilize plasma levels.

A qualified healthcare professional must determine the exact dose, taking into account co-existing medical conditions, concurrent medications, and patient age.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Dry mouth: reported in >30 % of patients.
Sedation or drowsiness: observed in 20-25 % of subjects during the first weeks of therapy.
Constipation: affects roughly 15 % of users.
Weight gain: noted in 10-12 % of long-term users.
Blurred vision: occurs in about 8 % of individuals, usually transient.

These adverse effects frequently diminish as the body acclimates to the medication.

Serious Adverse Events

Cardiotoxicity: Rare instances of arrhythmia and QRS prolongation can arise, especially in patients with pre-existing heart disease. Immediate medical evaluation is required if palpitations, chest pain, or syncope occur.
Seizures: Although uncommon (<0.1 %), imipramine may lower seizure threshold, warranting caution in patients with epilepsy.
Serotonin syndrome: Co-administration with other serotonergic agents can precipitate this potentially life-threatening condition, characterized by hyperthermia, agitation, and neuromuscular abnormalities.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to imipramine or any tricyclic antidepressant.
Recent myocardial infarction or uncontrolled cardiac arrhythmias.
Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) - a washout period of at least 14 days is required.
Severe hepatic impairment, as metabolism is predominantly hepatic.

Drug Interactions

CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, quinidine) can raise imipramine plasma concentrations, increasing toxicity risk.
Other serotonergic drugs (SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans) heighten serotonin syndrome potential.
Anticholinergic agents (e.g., atropine) may amplify dry mouth and urinary retention.
Warfarin: Imipramine can potentiate anticoagulant effects, necessitating closer INR monitoring.

Special Populations

Pregnancy: Classified as Category C by the FDA; animal studies suggest risk, and human data are limited. Use only when benefits outweigh potential fetal harm.
Breastfeeding: Imipramine passes into breast milk; infants may experience sedation or irritability. Consultation with a lactation specialist is advisable.
Older adults: Age-related pharmacokinetic changes increase the likelihood of cardiac side effects; lower starting doses (e.g., 10 mg) are recommended.
Renal or hepatic impairment: Dose reductions and extended intervals may be necessary due to reduced clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Imipramine differ from newer antidepressants? Imipramine blocks both serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake, whereas many newer agents target a single neurotransmitter. This dual action can produce a broader therapeutic effect but also a higher side-effect burden.
How long before Imipramine produces noticeable effects for depression? Most patients report early improvement in sleep and appetite within 1-2 weeks, while mood enhancement typically becomes evident after 4-6 weeks of consistent dosing.
What should I do if I experience dry mouth while taking Imipramine? Chewing sugar-free gum, sipping water regularly, and avoiding caffeine can alleviate discomfort. If the symptom persists or worsens, contact your healthcare provider for possible dose adjustment.
Can Imipramine be taken at night? Because sedation is common, many clinicians schedule the dose in the evening. However, if daytime drowsiness interferes with activities, an early-day dosing regimen may be preferable.
Does taking Imipramine with food affect its absorption? Food does not significantly change bioavailability, but a meal may lessen gastrointestinal irritation, making the medication more tolerable.
What are the signs of a serious cardiac adverse event? Rapid heartbeat, chest pain, fainting, or prolonged QT interval on an ECG require urgent medical attention.
Is Imipramine safe for elderly patients with heart disease? The drug must be used cautiously; lower starting doses and careful cardiac monitoring are essential.
How does Imipramine interact with over-the-counter antihistamines? Both have anticholinergic properties, potentially increasing dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Discuss any OTC use with your clinician.
What lifestyle changes can enhance the effectiveness of Imipramine? Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and adherence to a balanced diet support mood stabilization and may reduce the required dose.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing Imipramine?
- Complete list of current prescription and over-the-counter medications, including supplements.
- Detailed medical history, especially heart conditions, liver/kidney disease, and seizure disorders.
- Prior response to antidepressants and any side-effects experienced.
- Treatment goals and concerns about sexual or cognitive effects.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Imipramine is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing Imipramine for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing Imipramine.