Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that’s been used for decades. Doctors prescribe it mainly for depression and sometimes for bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis) or certain chronic pain problems. It boosts mood by blocking reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, but it also affects other body systems. That explains both its benefits and its side effects.
Typical adult doses for depression range from about 75 mg to 150 mg per day, often split into two doses or given at night to help with sleep. For bedwetting in children, much lower doses — often 10–25 mg at bedtime — may be used short term under close supervision. Older adults and people with heart problems usually start at a lower dose and increase slowly. Always follow your doctor’s instructions; these numbers are general ranges, not a prescription.
Imipramine has an active metabolite (desipramine) and a long onset time — you may need several weeks to notice mood improvement. If you feel better, don’t stop suddenly. Tapering over days to weeks prevents withdrawal-like symptoms such as anxiety, dizziness, or flu-like feelings.
Common side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, drowsiness, and weight gain. It can cause dizziness or low blood pressure when standing (orthostatic hypotension). Because it blocks certain receptors, it can worsen urinary retention or glaucoma and may affect heart rhythm—so people with heart disease should be checked with an ECG before or during treatment.
Serious risks include overdose, which can be life-threatening (confusion, severe drowsiness, rapid heartbeat, seizures). Combining imipramine with MAO inhibitors is dangerous and strictly avoided. Also be cautious when mixing with SSRIs, certain antipsychotics, or drugs that hit CYP2D6 — these can raise imipramine levels and increase side effects. Alcohol and sedatives add to drowsiness and fall risk.
Watch for new or worsening mood changes, suicidal thoughts (especially in young adults), heart palpitations, fainting, or severe anticholinergic effects. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including herbal supplements like St. John’s wort.
Practical tips: take imipramine at night if it makes you sleepy, sip water or chew sugar-free gum to ease dry mouth, and move slowly when standing up. Keep regular follow-ups so your doctor can monitor blood pressure, heart rhythm, and symptom response. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy, discuss risks and alternatives with your clinician.
Imipramine works for many people but needs careful handling. If you’re unsure whether it’s right for you, ask your prescriber about safer options or monitoring plans. Small changes in dose or timing can make a big difference in both benefits and side effects.
If you're taking imipramine or thinking about it, you probably have questions about how and when to take it, how it interacts with other meds, and what to watch for. This article gives clear answers about imipramine's timing, dose separation, and monitoring, packed with tips and real-world advice. We’ll cover exactly what to expect, how to avoid common mistakes, and ways to keep yourself feeling your best. Get the facts you wish your doctor had explained in plain language, all right here. Plus, there's a helpful resource for checking medication interactions yourself.
