Imipramine
Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) used primarily to treat major depressive disorder. It is also prescribed for conditions such as enuresis (bedwetting) in children and sometimes used off-label for chronic pain conditions. As one of the older antidepressants, it is typically considered when newer medications are not effective or tolerated.
Imipramine is an older tricyclic antidepressant used for depression and related conditions, working by affecting neurotransmitter levels in the brain.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06AA02
- RxNorm
- 5691
- Generic
- Imipramine
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, capsule, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primarily used for major depressive disorder. Also prescribed for nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) in children over 6 years old. May be used off-label for chronic pain syndromes, anxiety disorders, and migraine prevention when other treatments fail.
Imipramine works by inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters, primarily norepinephrine and serotonin, in the brain. This increases their availability in synaptic spaces, helping to improve mood and emotional regulation. It also has anticholinergic and antihistamine properties that contribute to its therapeutic effects.
Due to its older classification, imipramine often has more side effects than modern antidepressants, including anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention), sedation, weight gain, and potential cardiac effects. It requires careful dosing and monitoring, especially in patients with heart conditions, seizure disorders, or those taking other serotonergic medications. Not typically used as a first-line treatment due to its side effect profile compared to newer antidepressants.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy