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Pharmacology: The mechanism of antidepressant action of imipramine is not clear although it has been shown to block the reuptake of various neurotransmitters at the neuronal membrane. As a result, the actions of norepinephrine and serotonin may be potentiated. Imipramine has strong anticholinergic actions as well. Imipramine is not an MAO inhibitor. Imipramine's mechanism of action in the treatment of enuresis may involve inhibition of urination due to anticholinergic activity, arousal by the stimulus of a full bladder due to CNS stimulant activity, or other unknown mechanisms.
Imipramine is absorbed after oral administration with peak plasma levels occurring within 1 to 2 hours. It is extensively metabolised by the liver and the metabolites are excreted primarily by the kidney. One metabolite, desipramine, is active. The half-life of imipramine ranges from 8 to 16 hours.
