CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson, Fear Free,
Medication: Imipramine
Your cat has been prescribed imipramine for the treatment of a behavioral problem, urinary incontinence, narcolepsy, or muscle weakness.
ℹ️Key points: • A tricyclic antidepressant drug used as an aid to the treatment of behavioral and some other issues. • May be used in conjunction with behavioral modification techniques.
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Imipramine (im-ih-pra-meen).
Brand name
- There are no licensed medications for cats.
Class of medication
- Tricyclic antidepressant.
Storage
- Store at room temperature away from humidity and light.
Why has my cat been prescribed imipramine?
Your veterinarian has prescribed imipramine for the treatment of a behavioral problem, urinary incontinence, narcolepsy, or muscle weakness.
How is the medication given?
Imipramine is given orally (as tablets). It may be given with or without food. It may be used in conjunction with behavior modifying techniques.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Possible side-effects include drowsiness, constipation, dry mouth, hyperexcitability, ataxia, tremors, vomiting and diarrhea. More serious side-effects such as seizures, bleeding, collapse etc are rare. Data is limited for side-effects in cats, as there are no licensed products for this species. Your pet may be able to continue with the drug if side effects are mild but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible, so that they can decide whether additional medications or different medications are required. Use with caution in pets with liver disease, kidney disease, seizures, diabetes, dry eye, glaucoma, thyroid disease and heart disease. Do not use in pregnant or lactating queens. Do not give with aged cheese. Imipramine may interact with a number of medications. Please discuss your pet’s other medications and supplements with your veterinarian.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Imipramine tablets should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused imipramine safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save imipramine for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Imipramine should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on imipramine?
No specific tests are required while your cat is taking imipramine but animals with pre-existing liver problems may require blood tests to monitor their liver parameters. Imipramine may interfere with blood glucose testing, so monitor diabetic patients carefully.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on imipramine can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no veterinary drugs containing imipramine licensed for use in cats in the UK or Europe. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human drug containing imipramine and will be able to explain the use of off-license medications to you.
US
- There are no veterinary drugs containing imipramine licensed for use in cats in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human drug containing imipramine and will be able to explain the use of off-license medications to you.