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Tofranil vs. Vivactil

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

Key takeaways

Imipramine (Tofranil) and protriptyline (Vivactil) are both tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) used to treat depression, but they have some key differences. Imipramine is also used to treat bedwetting in children, while protriptyline is not. Imipramine comes in two forms: imipramine hydrochloride and imipramine pamoate, which differ in how quickly they release the medication. Protriptyline, on the other hand, needs to be taken 3 to 4 times a day, making it less convenient. Both medications can cause side effects like dizziness, dry mouth, and sleepiness, but imipramine can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics and should be taken with caution, especially in older adults or those with a history of heart problems.

Imipramine

 

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Protriptyline

 

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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 Vivactil

Prescription only

Protriptyline is used to treat depression. It's not as commonly used today as other newer antidepressants because it needs to be taken 3 to 4 times per day. In addition, it can cause many side effects including headache, blurry vision, restlessness, and stomach-upset.

Indications for Vivactil

  • Depression

Pros and Cons for Vivactil

Pros

  • Can take with or without food
  • Taken by mouth
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Needs to be taken multiple times a day
  • Should be used with caution in older adults, especially if there's a history of heart problems
  • Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it

Common Side Effects for Vivactil

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurry vision
  • Restlessness and anxiety
  • Tremors, shakiness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Constipation
  • Change in taste
  • Trouble getting or maintaining an erection

Warnings for Vivactil

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

Prices with our coupons for Tofranil vs. Vivactil

Price Card Drug Icon
Imipramine Hydrochloride90 tablets / 50mg
$26.65$64.90
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Price Card Drug Icon
Protriptyline90 tablets / 10mg
$131.16$488.77
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