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Tofranil vs. Desipramine

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

Key takeaways

Imipramine (Tofranil) and desipramine (Norpramin) are both tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) used to treat depression, but they have some differences. Imipramine is available in two forms: imipramine hydrochloride and imipramine pamoate, while desipramine is available as desipramine hydrochloride. Imipramine can also be used to treat bedwetting in children, whereas desipramine is only approved for depression. The typical dosage for imipramine varies based on the form and the condition being treated, while desipramine is usually taken once daily. Both medications can cause side effects like sleepiness, dizziness, and weight gain, but desipramine has a higher risk of causing serotonin syndrome. Both medications can also cause severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Both medications are not first-choice options for depression due to their side effects and are available as lower-cost generics.

Imipramine

 

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Desipramine

(Norpramin)

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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

Summary for Desipramine

Prescription only

Desipramine (Norpramin) is an tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it's not a first-choice medication for this condition. Desipramine (Norpramin) is taken by mouth, typically once per day. Side effects of this medication include sleepiness, confusion, and weight gain. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking desipramine (Norpramin) because doing so can worsen side effects.

Indications for Desipramine

Pros and Cons for Desipramine

Pros

  • Available as a lower-cost generic
  • Comes in many different strengths, which makes dose adjustments easier
  • Can be taken just once a day

Cons

Common Side Effects for Desipramine

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

Warnings for Desipramine

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

Prices with our coupons for Tofranil vs. Desipramine

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Imipramine Hydrochloride90 tablets / 50mg
$23.78$105.88
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Desipramine90 tablets / 10mg
$18.93$109.92
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