Imipramine is an antidepressant forming part of the class of drugs known as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). TCAs inhibit the reuptake of the neurotransmitters serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain. They are older, but effective, drugs that are less selective than more modern reuptake inhibitors, such as SSRIs. Imipramine is prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, neuralgia and narcolepsy (uncontrollable sleep attacks).
Imipramine and the benefit of DNA analysis
The rate at which imipramine is processed within your body varies from one individual to another. This means that the efficacy and side effects of imipramine can be predicted to some extent on the basis of your genes.
Preventive DNA analysis can therefore be an important tool in optimising your medication.
Imipramine and the enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19
Imipramine is processed to a large extent by the enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19.
Initially, imipramine is metabolised (demethylated) by the enzyme CYP2C19 into another active substance. The enzymes CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 are also involved in this step to a lesser extent. After this activation step this substance is metabolised further (hydroxylated) by the enzyme CYP2D6 into less active components.
The activity of the enzymes concerned can vary considerably depending on your genetic predisposition, which means the efficacy of imipramine can also differ from person to person.
Information about your genetic predisposition may therefore provide grounds for extra vigilance in relation to a treatment with imipramine.
Read more about CYP2D6 enzyme »
Also known as
Antideprin, Imipramin, Imipramine, Imipraminum, Imizine, Irmin, Melipramine, Antidep, Depsonil, Depsonil-PM, Elamin, Fronil, Imidol, Imipramin Dak, Imiprex, Pramin