Name of the Drug
Tofranil (Imipramine)
Uses of the Drug
Tofranil helps to treat depression. It is even recommended sometimes for children who have the problem of bedwetting. Sometimes the doctors can also use it for some other conditions.
How to Take
Tofranil should be taken as per the doctor’s recommendations. The label of the medicine should be checked for the right instruction on dosing. Tofranil comes along with an additional patient leaflet.
Tofranil can be taken orally with food or simply without food.
Taking Tofranil during bedtime might help in reducing side effects
Even though you feel good do not stop taking Tofranil. A single dose should not be missed.
Drug Mechanism and Class
Tofranil is considered to be a tricyclic antidepressant. It functions by increasing some chemicals present in your brain, which helps in elevating the mood.
Missed Dose
If you ever miss a dosage of Tofranil, and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage
Tofranil should be stored at the room temperature somewhere between 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). It should be kept away from children and pets. Tofranil should be stored away from light, moisture and heat.
Warnings Precautions
Tofranil should NOT be taken if:
- you are prone to allergies to a single ingredient present in Tofranil;
- you have already taken monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (e.g., phenelzine) or furazolidone a within past 14 days, or in case you take droperidol, astemizole, or terfenadine.
- you have recovered from any heart attack in the recent times.
You should get in touch with the doctor very soon if you notice any of the above-mentioned problems.
Some of the medical conditions might have interaction with Tofranil. Inform your pharmacist or doctor in case you are having any other diseases and particularly if you are having any one of the below mentioned list:
- if you have conceived, or planning to get pregnant, or breast-feeding
- if you take any nonprescription or prescription medicine, dietary supplement, or herbal preparation
- if you are allergic to foods, medicines, or some other substances
- if you have a habit of drinking ???alcohol-containing’ beverages every day or you are having any record of the alcohol abuse
- if you are taking thyroid drug or if you are having any history of an overactive glaucoma, thyroid, heart problems, liver or kidney problems, seizures, diabetes, difficulty urinating or blood disease porphyria
- if you are having history of any suicidal behavior or thoughts, bipolar disorder, or some other mental disorders; undergoing any electroshock therapy or have had any surgery in the recent past.
Some of the MEDICINES MIGHT HAVE INTERACTION with Tofranil. Inform your pharmacist or doctor in case you notice any one of the below mentioned medicines:
- cimetidine, Azole antifungals (eg, fluconazole), duloxetine, flecainide, methylphenidate, mibefradil, phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine), propafenone, quinidine, terbinafine (eg, fluoxetine) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), because they might increase side effects of Tofranil.
- furazolidone, Arsenic, droperidol, astemizole, MAOIs (eg, phenelzine), streptogramins (eg, dalfopristin), pimozide, tramadol, or terfenadine as risk of severe heart problems, high levels of blood pressure, seizures or heart problems might be increased.
- phenytoin or Barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital) because they might decrease effectiveness of Tofranil
- Anticholinergics (eg, benztropine), sympathomimetics (eg, phenylephrine)or carbamazepine, because they might increase side effects of Tofranil
- Clonidine, guanfacine or guanethidine, because they might decrease effectiveness of Tofranil
Common Side Effects
All medicines can have side effects. However, there are some people who have either less or no side effects. Check whether you have any of the side effects as mentioned below and in that case consult your doctor as soon as possible:
* drowsiness; dizziness; dry mouth; headache; excitement; impotence; nausea; pupil dilation; nightmares; sweating; sensitivity to sunlight; tiredness; vomiting; upset stomach; weight gain or loss; weakness.
You should consult your doctor immediately in case you have the serious side effects as mentioned below:
* Serious allergic reactions (hives; rash; itching; tightness in chest; difficulty in breathing; swelling of face, lips, mouth, or tongue); alternations in sex drive; blurred vision or other vision changes; confusion; chest pain; constipation; fever; fainting; slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat; frequent or difficult urination; impulsive behavior or other unusual behavior changes; hallucinations; neck, jaw, or muscle spasms; mood or mental changes (eg, mood swings, increased anxiety, irritability, agitation, restlessness, nervousness,); ringing in ears; panic attacks; seizures; sore throat; severe dizziness or drowsiness; stomach pain; tremor; suicidal thinking or behavior; trouble sleeping; swelling of the testicles; twitching of face or tongue; uncontrolled movements of arms and legs or stiffness; keeping your balance or trouble walking; unusual bruising or bleeding; yellowing of eyes or skin; worsening of depression.
More Information
You should consult your pharmacist in case of any query. This medicine should be exclusively used by only the patient. Do not share Tofranil with some other people. In case the symptoms persist, consult your doctor immediately.