Key takeaways
Imipramine (Tofranil) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are both used to treat depression, but they belong to different classes of medications. Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that also helps with bedwetting in children, while duloxetine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that treats anxiety, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and long-term pain in addition to depression. Imipramine can cause side effects like sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth, and it may take 1 to 2 months to feel its full benefits. Duloxetine, on the other hand, can cause nausea, headache, and dry mouth, and it may take several weeks to feel its full effects. Both medications can lead to withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, but duloxetine is also associated with a risk of liver damage and serotonin syndrome. However, imipramine can cause glaucoma. Both medications are available as low-cost generics.
