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Elavil vs. Tofranil

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Amitriptyline (formerly branded as Elavil) and imipramine (formerly branded as Tofranil) are both tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) used to treat depression. However, they have some differences. Amitriptyline is also commonly used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention, while imipramine is approved for bedwetting in children. Amitriptyline can cause side effects like sleepiness and weight gain, and it has many interactions with other medications. Imipramine, on the other hand, can cause side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, and blurry vision. Both medications can lead to withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly and have risks for heart problems, seizures, and worsening depression. Additionally, imipramine comes in two forms: imipramine hydrochloride and imipramine pamoate, which differ in how they release the medication in your body.

Amitriptyline

 

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Imipramine

 

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Summary for Elavil

Prescription only

Amitriptyline is also known by the old brand name Elavil. It's a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that's approved to treat depression. But it's not used as often today for depression because it can cause a lot of side effects, like sleepiness and weight gain. It also has many drug interactions. Even so, amitriptyline is often used off label for other reasons, like nerve pain from diabetes and to help prevent migraines. Amitriptyline comes as a generic tablet that you take by mouth. The brand name Elavil is no longer available.

Indications for Elavil

Pros and Cons for Elavil

Pros

  • Can start to work within 2 to 4 weeks
  • Can take with or without food

Cons

  • Has many unpleasant side effects, like dry mouth and sleepiness, and drug interactions
  • Not the best choice for people with heart problems, trouble urinating, or glaucoma or older adults

Common Side Effects for Elavil

  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Weight gain

Warnings for Elavil

  • Worsening depression or suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Not for use alone for bipolar disorder
  • Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
  • Low sodium levels
  • Risk of seizure
  • Angle-closure glaucoma in certain people

Summary for Tofranil

Prescription only

Imipramine is a medication that's used to treat depression. It can also temporarily help with bedwetting in children at night. Imipramine belongs to a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). There are two different forms of the medication: imipramine hydrochloride and imipramine pamoate. They used to be available under the brand name Tofranil but are now only sold as generic versions. The dosage generally depends on why you need imipramine, how severe your symptoms are, and your age. It's generally not a first-choice option because it can cause a lot of side effects, like sleepiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and changes in weight.

Indications for Tofranil

  • Depression
  • Bedwetting in children (imipramine hydrochloride only)

Pros and Cons for Tofranil

Pros

  • Available as a lower-cost generic
  • Can take with or without food
  • Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on how well the medication is working for you
  • For bedwetting, only needs to be taken right before bedtime

Cons

  • Can cause a lot of side effects, including blurry vision, dry mouth, and eye pain
  • Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it too suddenly after long-term use
  • Has a risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Not a good option for people with a history of heart problems

Common Side Effects for Tofranil

In adults (with depression)

  • Dry mouth
  • Blurry vision
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Anxiety
  • Restlessness

In children (with bedwetting problems)

  • Nervousness
  • Sleep problems
  • Tiredness
  • Stomach upset

Warnings for Tofranil

  • Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
  • Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
  • Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
  • Glaucoma
  • Higher risk of falls
  • Seizures

Prices with our coupons for Elavil vs. Tofranil

Price Card Drug Icon
Amitriptyline30 tablets / 25mg
$4.00$4.00
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Price Card Drug Icon
Imipramine Hydrochloride90 tablets / 50mg
$26.65$64.90
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