Skip to main content

Compare
Tofranil vs. Paxil

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

Key takeaways

Imipramine (Tofranil) and paroxetine (Paxil) are both used to treat depression, but they belong to different medication classes. Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that also helps with bedwetting in children, while paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that treats various anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Both medications can cause dry mouth, nausea, and sleepiness. Additionally, imipramine can cause a higher risk of heart problems. Paroxetine, on the other hand, can cause serotonin syndrome, sexual side effects, and weight gain. Both medications can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in younger individuals. Additionally, both medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly and are available as low-cost generics.

Imipramine

 

Get free coupons

Paroxetine

(Paxil)

Get free coupons

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 Paxil

Prescription only

Paroxetine (also known by it's brand name Paxil) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), used for different types of anxiety problems and depression. It's available as a brand name and generic version, and it comes as an immediate-release tablet, an oral suspension, and an extended-release tablet. Possible side effects include nausea, sexual side effects, and weight gain. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms (e.g., headache, trouble sleeping, anxiety) if you suddenly stop taking it.

Indications for Paxil

Pros and Cons for Paxil

Pros

  • Only needs to be taken once daily
  • Available as a tablet and oral liquid
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Can be used for many different mental health conditions
  • Can be helpful for people who have both anxiety and depression

Cons

Common Side Effects for Paxil

  • Abnormal ejaculation (up to 28%)
  • Nausea (up to 25%)
  • Weakness (up to 22%)
  • Sleepiness or trouble sleeping (up to 24%)
  • Dry mouth (up to 18%)
  • Constipation (up to 16%)
  • Sweating (up to 14%)
  • Dizziness (up to 14%)
  • Diarrhea (up to 12%)
  • Low libido (up to 12%)
  • Shakiness (up to 11%)

Warnings for Paxil

  • Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Risk of harm to unborn babies
  • Sexual problems
  • Withdrawal
  • Risk of bleeding
  • Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
  • Glaucoma
  • Low blood sodium levels
  • Seizures
  • Risk of abnormal heart rhythm from interactions

Prices with our coupons for Tofranil vs. Paxil

Price Card Drug Icon
Imipramine Hydrochloride90 tablets / 50mg
$26.65$64.90
Get free coupons
More Information
Price Card Drug Icon
Paroxetine30 tablets / 20mg
$4.00$4.00
Get free coupons
More Information

Compare other Depression drugs

Elavil vs. TofranilMaprotiline vs. TofranilSilenor vs. TofranilTofranil vs. CymbaltaTofranil vs. Desipramine
Tofranil vs. EffexorTofranil vs. NeurontinTofranil vs. PaxilTofranil vs. VivactilTofranil vs. ZoloftElavil vs. AmoxapineElavil vs. AnafranilElavil vs. CafergotElavil vs. CymbaltaElavil vs. DesipramineElavil vs. DesyrelElavil vs. DoxepinElavil vs. EffexorElavil vs. FioricetElavil vs. ImitrexElavil vs. LamictalElavil vs. LidocaineElavil vs. MaprotilineElavil vs. OleptroElavil vs. PamelorElavil vs. PropranololElavil vs. ProzacElavil vs. SilenorElavil vs. SurmontilElavil vs. Tegretol

Browse medications by letter

Show All

Browse prescription and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.