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Maprotiline vs. Tofranil

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

Key takeaways

Maprotiline and imipramine are both medications used to treat depression, but they belong to different classes. Maprotiline was a tetracyclic antidepressant, but is no longer available in the U.S. Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Imipramine has an additional FDA-approved use for treating bedwetting in children, Imipramine comes in two forms: imipramine hydrochloride tablets and imipramine pamoate capsules, with dosing adjusted based on age and condition. Common side effects of imipramine include dry mouth, dizziness, and weight changes. Imipramine has significant drug interactions, especially with sedatives and MAOIs, and carries risks like suicidal thoughts and heart problems.

Maprotiline

 

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Imipramine

 

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Summary for Maprotiline

Prescription only

Maprotiline is an antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety associated with depression. It's no longer available in the United States because it was discontinued.

Indications for Maprotiline

  • Depression
  • Anxiety from depression

Pros and Cons for Maprotiline

Pros

Cons

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 Maprotiline vs. Tofranil

Price Card Drug Icon
Maprotiline30 tablets / 50mg
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Price Card Drug Icon
Imipramine Hydrochloride90 tablets / 50mg
$26.65$64.90
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