Imipramine pamoate

Imipramine hydrochloride is a type of tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that is used primarily in the treatment of depression. It is also used in the treatment of enuresis (involuntary urination), and panic disorder. Imipramine hydrochloride was the first TCA to be developed and has been in use since the 1950s.

History

Imipramine hydrochloride was first synthesized in the late 1940s by the Swiss pharmaceutical company Geigy (now part of Novartis). It was initially developed as a potential treatment for schizophrenia, but was found to be ineffective for this purpose. However, during clinical trials, it was observed that the drug had a significant effect on mood, leading to its development as an antidepressant.

Pharmacology

Imipramine hydrochloride works by inhibiting the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and serotonin, in the brain. This increases the levels of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, which in turn leads to an elevation of mood.

Side effects

Like all TCAs, imipramine hydrochloride can have a number of side effects. These can include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, weight gain, and dizziness. More serious side effects can include cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and an increased risk of suicide.

See also

• Tricyclic antidepressant
• Depression
• Enuresis
• Panic disorder