Basic Tofranil Information

• INN (International Nonproprietary Name): Imipramine
• Brand Names Available In Australia: Tofranil®
• ATC Code: N06AA02
• Forms & Dosages: Tablets (10 mg, 25 mg), Capsules (75 mg, 100 mg)
• Manufacturers In Australia: Novartis
• Registration Status In Australia: Approved
• OTC / Rx Classification: Prescription-only

Critical Warnings & Restrictions

Tofranil, or imipramine, is a tricyclic antidepressant commonly prescribed for depression and childhood nocturnal enuresis. However, caution is essential, particularly for high-risk groups. **High-Risk Groups** The following groups may be particularly sensitive to the side effects of Tofranil: - **Elderly Patients:** Age-related physiological changes may increase the risk of side effects. - **Pregnant Women:** There are potential risks associated with the use of Tofranil during pregnancy. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. - **Individuals with Chronic Illnesses:** Those with pre-existing conditions, such as heart disease or severe liver problems, need to be closely monitored while on this medication. Consulting a healthcare provider before starting Tofranil is vital for these groups to ensure safe and effective treatment. **Interaction With Activities** Tofranil can have significant effects on alertness and reaction times, making it crucial to understand the implications for daily activities. It’s important to consider: - **Driving:** Tofranil may impair driving capabilities due to potential drowsiness or decreased alertness, subjecting individuals to legal penalties under Australian law if they operate a vehicle while impaired. - **Workplace Safety:** Employees operating machinery or performing safety-sensitive tasks should be particularly cautious, as the effects of this medication can lead to decreased performance and increased accident potential.

Q&A — “Can I Drive After Taking It In Australia?”

Driving after taking Tofranil can pose risks due to potential drowsiness and delayed reaction times. It's advisable to assess how the medication affects individual alertness before getting behind the wheel.

Usage Basics

Tofranil is available in Australia as a prescription-only medication, recognising its status as a controlled substance. **International Nonproprietary Name (INN) And Brand Names** The active ingredient in Tofranil is imipramine. Patients may find Tofranil marketed under this name in Australian pharmacies. **Legal Classification** The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved Tofranil for specific indications, and it is also listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), demonstrating that it is recognised within Australia for medicinal use.

Dosing Guide

Getting the dosage right for Tofranil is crucial to its effectiveness. The typical regimens vary based on the condition being treated: **Standard Regimens** For adults dealing with depression, the usual starting dose is 75 mg daily, which can be increased gradually to 150–200 mg daily depending on response and tolerance. For treating childhood nocturnal enuresis, doses generally start between 10-25 mg at bedtime, with adjustments made for effectiveness—up to 50 mg for ages 6–12 and 75 mg for individuals older than 12 years. **Adjustments for Comorbidities** Keeping in mind certain patient factors is essential: - **Children:** They typically require lower initial doses and must be monitored closely to avoid exceeding age-related limits. - **Elderly Patients:** Should usually start on lower doses due to increased risk of adverse effects. A range of 10-25 mg daily may be appropriate. - **Renal or Hepatic Impairment:** Dosages may need adjustments in these populations to prevent accumulation and side effects.

Q&A — “What If I Miss A Dose?”

If a dose of Tofranil is missed, take it as soon as possible. However, if it’s nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up on the medication.

Interaction Chart

When considering treatment with Tofranil, it's essential to be aware of how it interacts with food and other substances. **Food and Drinks** Alcohol can intensify the sedative effects of Tofranil, leading to increased drowsiness. Additionally, high caffeine consumption from coffee may counteract some antidepressant effects, complicating treatment. **Common Drug Conflicts** There are several medications that may interact adversely with Tofranil, including: - Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Can lead to serious side effects. - Other antidepressants: Risk of serotonin syndrome with SSRIs or SNRIs. Patients should inform healthcare providers about all medications being taken to mitigate potential negative interactions effectively. Always consult a healthcare professional for guidance on specific circumstances and adjustments.

Mechanism & Pharmacology

Understanding how Tofranil operates can alleviate concerns about its use. As a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), Tofranil primarily works by inhibiting the reabsorption—or reuptake—of specific neurotransmitters in the brain, namely serotonin and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a vital role in regulating mood, anxiety, and overall emotional well-being.

When one takes Tofranil, the drug helps increase the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the synaptic cleft, the space between neurons. This elevation in neurotransmitter levels can lead to enhanced mood and reduced feelings of depression. The mechanism is rather straightforward: by blocking their reuptake, Tofranil ensures that these mood-regulating chemicals remain active for longer periods, effectively improving symptoms of depression and anxiety. Its action, however, can also affect other neurotransmitters, contributing to various side effects that users should be aware of.

Indications & Off-Label Uses

Tofranil is officially recognised by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for treating depression and childhood nocturnal enuresis, also known as bedwetting. For adults, the typical starting dose for depression is around 75 mg per day, with increments allowed based on individual response.

Off-label, Tofranil has found its way into use for conditions such as anxiety disorders, chronic pain management, and even certain types of migraine prevention. Doctors often prescribe it for these uses based on clinical judgement, particularly in patients with treatment-resistant symptoms where other therapies have failed. This flexibility highlights Tofranil’s utility beyond its primary indications.

Key Clinical Findings

Recent studies from Australia and international sources between 2022 and 2025 highlight Tofranil's continued efficacy in treating major depressive disorder, especially in cases where other treatments have not succeeded. One pivotal Australian trial noted a significant improvement in patients' mood and anxiety levels when Tofranil was used, showing promise as a viable option for resistant cases.

Long-term studies are increasingly examining Tofranil’s safety profile and are reporting that, while it is effective for various conditions, careful monitoring is advised due to potential side effects. Researchers are also exploring its application in other psychiatric disorders, indicating that Tofranil may have untapped potential in mental health care.

Alternatives Matrix

Drug Name	Active Ingredient	Common Uses
Amitriptyline	Amitriptyline Hydrochloride	Depression, chronic pain, migraine prevention
Nortriptyline	Nortriptyline Hydrochloride	Depression, chronic pain management

Pros and Cons Checklist:

• Pros: Effective for various depressive disorders, often used when SSRIs fail.
• Cons: Side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and potential cardiovascular issues.

Common Questions

Patients frequently ask about Tofranil during pharmacy consultations. Common queries include:

• What’s the recommended dosage?
• What side effects should I expect?
• Can Tofranil interact with other medications?

Understanding these concerns can help ease anxiety about starting this treatment.

Suggested Visual Content

Visual content ideas for Tofranil could include:

• An infographic that highlights PBS pricing and comparisons.
• A chart illustrating potential side effects and their frequency.
• A pharmacy network map displaying local access points for Tofranil.

Such infographics can aid further comprehension and accessibility for patients. They create an engaging visual representation for critical information.

Registration & Regulation

Tofranil, which contains the active ingredient imipramine, falls under Australia’s regulatory guidelines that ensure medication safety and efficacy. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) plays a pivotal role in assessing medications for both effectiveness and safety prior to offering them to the public. This scrutiny involves a rigorous review process, ensuring that products like Tofranil meet appropriate health standards.

In terms of affordability, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) offers essential subsidies for Tofranil, making it more accessible to Australians. By covering significant portions of the cost, it alleviates financial burdens for many patients. This subsidy underscores the importance of government-supported healthcare initiatives, particularly for those reliant on medications for mental health conditions.

Storage & Handling

Effective storage of Tofranil, especially given Australia's diverse climate, is paramount for ensuring its effectiveness. It should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 20–25°C, away from heat and humidity. This avoids degradation that could occur in extreme weather conditions. Keeping it in a cool, dry place is essential.

Pharmacies are also required to follow specific cold-chain handling procedures. Ensuring that Tofranil is stored correctly at all times maintains its potency. Regular audits of storage conditions can help pharmacies uphold these standards, guaranteeing that patients receive effective medications.

Guidelines for Proper Use

Australian pharmacists adhere to best practices when counselling patients about Tofranil. Clear communication regarding the dosage, side effects, and potential interactions with other medications is key. Patients are encouraged to discuss their medical history and any existing conditions, ensuring tailored advice.

From the perspectives of PBS and national health authorities, clear instructions regarding uses, safety, and concerns are emphasised. Patients should understand their treatment plan and feel empowered to report any adverse effects. Resources are often available to assist patients in their journey with Tofranil, promoting adherence and optimising health outcomes.

City	Region	Delivery Time
Sydney	New South Wales	5–7 days
Melbourne	Victoria	5–7 days
Brisbane	Queensland	5–7 days
Perth	Western Australia	5–7 days
Adelaide	South Australia	5–7 days
Canberra	Australian Capital Territory	5–7 days
Hobart	Tasmania	5–9 days
Newcastle	New South Wales	5–9 days
Central Coast	New South Wales	5–9 days
Gold Coast	Queensland	5–9 days
Wollongong	New South Wales	5–9 days
Cairns	Queensland	5–9 days
Geelong	Victoria	5–9 days