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Compare 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
    Imipramine
  • Amitriptyline
    Imipramine

  • Summary of Elavil vs. Tofranil

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Amitriptyline is FDA approved to treat depression. But it isn't as commonly used today as other antidepressants because it can cause a lot of side effects, such as sleepiness and weight gain. In addition, amitriptyline has many interactions with other medications, including other antidepressants, sedatives, and antihistamines. But despite the side effects and interactions, amitriptyline is often used off label for nerve pain due to diabetes and migraine prevention. While its brand name Elavil is no longer available, amitriptyline is available as a generic medication.

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    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 of Elavil vs. Tofranil

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Depression
    •Bedwetting in children (imipramine hydrochloride only)

  • Pros and Cons of Elavil vs. Tofranil

    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Available in many different strengths
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic form
    •Can take with or without food
    Cons
    •Has many unpleasant side effects compared to other antidepressants
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it after long-term use
    •Not the best choice for people with heart problems, glaucoma, or seizures or people age 65 years and older
    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    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 of Elavil vs. Tofranil

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Weakness
    •Fatigue
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Weight gain
    Common Side Effects for

    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 of Elavil vs. Tofranil

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

    Learn more about Amitriptyline
    Learn more about Imipramine

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