Tofranil
Tofranil
- In our pharmacy, you can buy Tofranil without a prescription, with delivery in 5–14 days throughout the US. Discreet and anonymous packaging.
- Tofranil is intended for the treatment of major depressive disorder and childhood nocturnal enuresis. The drug is a tricyclic antidepressant that works by inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters in the brain.
- The usual dose of Tofranil for adults is 75 mg per day, which may be increased to a maximum of 300 mg per day in severe cases.
- The form of administration is a tablet or capsule.
- The effect of the medication begins within 2–6 hours after the dose.
- The duration of action is approximately 24 hours.
- Do not consume alcohol while taking Tofranil, as it may enhance side effects.
- The most common side effect is drowsiness.
- Would you like to try Tofranil without a prescription?
Basic Tofranil Information
- INN (International Nonproprietary Name)
- Brand names available in Canada
- ATC Code
- Forms & dosages (e.g., tablets, injections, creams)
- Manufacturers in Canada
- Registration status in Canada
- OTC / Rx classification
International Nonproprietary Name (INN)
The International Nonproprietary Name (INN) for Tofranil is Imipramine. This medication falls under the category of tricyclic antidepressants and is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder.
Brand Names and Packaging
Tofranil® is the most recognized brand globally, and it is widely available in Canada. In the US, it's marketed as Tofranil PM™, which is offered in capsule forms. Besides brand names, generic forms are also accessible, primarily as imipramine hydrochloride or imipramine pamoate. Packaging options include tablets and capsules, which allow for flexibility in dosing.
| Country/Region | Brand Names | Common Packaging |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Tofranil | Tablets (10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg) |
| USA | Tofranil, Tofranil-PM | Tablets (various), Capsules (75 mg and above) |
| EU | Tofranil | Tablets (10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg) |
ATC Code
The ATC code for Tofranil is N06AA02, categorizing it under psychoanaleptics that primarily target mood disorders.
Manufacturers
In Canada, Novartis is recognized as the originator of Tofranil. Additionally, various generic manufacturers, including Teva and Mylan, produce comparable medications.
Registration Status
Tofranil is fully approved by Health Canada and is classified as a prescription-only medication (Rx). This ensures that it's available only through healthcare providers, reflecting its use in managing significant health concerns like depression.
Dosage & Administration of Tofranil
Understanding the right dosage of Tofranil is crucial for effective treatment. Here’s a quick overview:
| Condition | Typical Starting Dose | Maximum Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Major Depressive Disorder (Adults) | 75 mg/day (divided) | 300 mg/day |
| Nocturnal Enuresis (Child) | 10–25 mg at bedtime | 50 mg/night (ages 6-12) |
Age and existing health issues can greatly influence dosing. Elderly patients typically start with 10–25 mg due to heightened sensitivity to side effects. This cautious approach ensures safety as older adults may respond differently compared to younger patients.
The duration of treatment varies; for depression, the standard period is several weeks to months. Regular monitoring plays a key role in assessing progress and making necessary adjustments.
Effective storage of Tofranil is also important. It should be kept at a controlled temperature between 20–25°C, shielded from light and moisture, and out of children's reach.
Safety & Warnings for Tofranil
Safety should always be a top priority when taking medications like Tofranil. Here’s what you need to know:
- Absolute Contraindications: Known hypersensitivity to the drug, recent heart attack, or using medications like MAOIs cannot be ignored.
- Relative Contraindications: Caution is advised for those with cardiac diseases, prior seizure history, or significant liver or kidney disease.
Common side effects associated with Tofranil include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. Some users may experience weight gain or sexual dysfunction, which can be concerning.
It's essential to monitor individuals with liver or renal impairment closely, as these conditions can heighten risks. Additionally, there's a black box warning indicating that children, adolescents, and young adults may experience increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors while taking Tofranil.
Patient Experience with Tofranil
Patient feedback provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of Tofranil. Reviews on platforms like Drugs.com often highlight the medication's positive impact on depression, while some users express concerns about side effects.
On forums such as Reddit, stories vary widely. Users frequently mention drowsiness as a significant challenge, making finding a manageable routine essential. Many patients acknowledge difficulties adhering to medication schedules due to side effects like dry mouth and weight gain, yet a good number also share satisfactory mental health improvements.
Notably, some users report enhanced results when combining Tofranil with lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and engaging in therapy. This suggests that effective treatment often involves a holistic approach.
Common Alternatives in Canada
When considering treatments for conditions like depression or anxiety, Tofranil is one option among several. In the Canadian market, other medications such as Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, Desipramine, and Clomipramine often come into play.
These alternatives vary in their efficacy and side effect profiles. Patients might find that different medications work better based on their unique needs. For example:
- Amitriptyline: This tricyclic antidepressant is commonly prescribed for both depression and pain management.
- Nortriptyline: Seen as a milder alternative, it often has fewer side effects than some other options.
- Desipramine: Known for its stimulating properties, it’s often selected for patients needing a boost in energy levels.
- Clomipramine: Mainly used for obsessive-compulsive disorder, it has a unique profile that might suit some.
Comparison Table
| Drug | Efficacy | Price (CAD) | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tofranil | Moderate-High | $15-$30 | Widely available |
| Amitriptyline | Moderate | $10-$20 | Available |
| Nortriptyline | Moderate | $15-$25 | Moderate availability |
Local Doctors' Preferences
Physicians typically lean towards selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as the first step in treatment for conditions like depression. They're often seen as safer with a more favorable side effect profile.
However, when patients are resistant to SSRIs or exhibit specific symptoms that tricyclics address better, Tofranil and its counterparts come into the conversation as viable options. The decision often involves weighing potential benefits against risks, personal history, and the patient’s specific needs.
Understanding these alternatives and their place in the treatment landscape is crucial for making informed choices about mental health care in Canada.