Anxil

Anxil Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Anxil is a brand name. Its generic name is Imipramine.

Introduction

Anxil is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It is classified as a tricyclic dibenzazepine-derivative. Anxil was developed in the 1950s as a treatment for depression and anxiety. Anxil is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of depression and panic disorder. Anxil is also used off-label to treat certain neurologic conditions, pain, and other mental health disorders.

Uses

Anxil is used to treat depression, pain, panic disorder, agoraphobia (fear of places where escape might be difficult), and nightime bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis). It can also be used off-label to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Mechanism Of Action

Anxil works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and noradrenaline, which increases levels in the synaptic junction. This in turn helps to improve mood and symptoms associated with depression. Anxil also works on the smooth muscle cells to reduce anxiety.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

It generally takes 2-4 weeks for Anxil to work. However, symptom improvement may occur as early as one week after the start of treatment.

Absorption

Anxil is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It reaches peak serum concentrations 12-24 hours after administration.

Route Of Elimination

Anxil is metabolized and excreted in the urine. Approximately 75-85% of a dose of Anxil is eliminated within 72 hours.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose of Anxil is 75-150mg taken orally once daily. The dose may be increased by 25-50mg every 3-4 days, up to a maximum of 300mg/day. The dose should be divided into two or three doses per day. It is important to consult your doctor for the most appropriate dosing regimen for you.

Administration

Anxil should be taken with food or milk. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain an even level in the blood. It should be taken as prescribed and not stopped abruptly without the consultation of a doctor.

Side Effect

Common side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, blurred vision, and lightheadedness. Less common side effects include confusion, feeling agitated or restless, increased heart rate, decreased appetite, sexual problems, difficulty urinating, and increased sweating.

Toxicity

Overdose with Anxil can be fatal. Symptoms of overdose may include confusion, seizures, and an irregular heart rhythm. Treatment for overdose may include activated charcoal, gastric lavage, IV fluids, and IV medications.

Precautions

Before taking Anxil, tell your doctor if you have any of the following: liver or kidney disease, heart disease, glaucoma, seizures or epilepsy, a history of drug abuse, and bipolar disorder. Anxil may cause drowsiness or impair your ability to react and think quickly. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Anxil will affect you.

Interactions

Anxil may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you are taking. It is important to avoid taking Anxil with MAO inhibitors, such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and selegiline.

Disease Interaction

Anxil may interact with certain diseases. Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, seizure disorder, or bipolar disorder. Anxil may worsen the symptoms of these conditions.

Drug Interaction

Anxil may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you are taking. Avoid taking Anxil with MAO inhibitors, such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and selegiline. Other medications that may interact with Anxil include Cimetidine, Propafenone, Quinidine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Amiodarone, and Thioridazine.

Food Interactions

Anxil may interact with certain foods. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Anxil, as this may increase the risk of certain side effects. Avoid taking Anxil with grapefruit juice as this may increase the risk of unusual side effects.

Pregnancy Use

Anxil should not be used during pregnancy. It can cause serious harm to a developing fetus. If you become pregnant while taking Anxil, notify your doctor immediately. Anxil use during the third trimester of pregnancy may cause withdrawal symptoms in the newborn such as seizures or irritability.

Lactation Use

Anxil is excreted in breast milk and should be used with caution in nursing mothers. Talk to your doctor before breastfeeding while taking Anxil.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose with Anxil can be fatal. Symptoms of an overdose may include confusion, seizures, and an irregular heart rhythm. Treatment for overdose may include activated charcoal, gastric lavage, IV fluids, and IV medications.

Contraindication

Anxil should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the medication. It should also be avoided in patients who are taking MAO inhibitors. It is also contraindicated in patients with cardiovascular disorders, glaucoma, and thyroid disorders.

Use Direction

Anxil should be taken exactly as prescribed. Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor. Take Anxil with food or milk. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain an even level in the blood.

Storage Condition

Store Anxil in a sealed container in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Volume Of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Anxil is approximately 20L/kg.

Half Life

The half life of Anxil is 10-23 hours.

Clearance

The total body clearance of Anxil is approximately 40 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Anxil

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Anxil

What is Anxil?

Anxil is a tricyclic antidepressant drug that is typically used to treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, and panic disorder.

What Are The Side Effects Of Anxil?

Common side effects of imipramine include drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, constipation, vision changes, enlarged pupils, and sexual dysfunction.

How Does Anxil Work?

Anxil works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, thereby increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain.

What Is The Dosage Of Anxil?

The recommended initial dose of imipramine is usually 75 mg per day, taken in divided doses. The dose can then be increased by increments of 50 mg up to a maximum of 300 mg per day.

Who Is Most Likely To Benefit From Taking Anxil?

Anxil is most likely to benefit people with conditions such as depression, anxiety, and panic disorder.

Is Anxil Safe To Take With Other Medications?

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking imipramine with other medications, as some drugs may interact with imipramine in a way that can be dangerous.

Can Anxil Be Used To Treat Insomnia?

Anxil is not usually used to treat insomnia, as it is most commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. But, if insomnia is a symptom of these conditions, then it is possible that Anxil may help.

Can Anxil Be Abused?

Anxil has abuse potential, and this is why it is important to take this medication only as prescribed by a doctor.

How Long Does It Take For Anxil To Take Effect?

It may take up to two weeks for imipramine to take effect, and during this time, it is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed.

Is It Safe To Take Anxil While Pregnant Or Nursing?

Anxil should be avoided during pregnancy and while nursing, as it can pass into breast milk and may cause harm to a nursing baby.

Does Anxil Cause Weight Gain?

Weight gain is a potential side effect of imipramine, but it is usually not seen in those who take the medication as prescribed.

What Are The Symptoms Of Anxil Overdose?

Common symptoms of imipramine overdose include nausea, vomiting, shallow breathing, dizziness, and seizures.

Are There Any Alternatives To Anxil?

Other tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and doxepin are alternatives to imipramine, while SSRI medications such as Prozac and Paxil are other options.

How Do I Know If Anxil Is Working?

If you are feeling better and your symptoms are improving, your doctor may determine that imipramine is working.

What Should I Do If I Miss A Dose Of Anxil?

If you miss a dose of imipramine, take the missed dose as soon as possible, but only if it is still within a few hours of the time you normally take the medication. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.

What Should I Do If I Overdose On Anxil?

If you think you have overdosed on imipramine, seek medical attention immediately. You may need to have your stomach pumped or have other treatments to prevent complications.

What Are The Signs Of Anxil Withdrawal?

Common symptoms of imipramine withdrawal include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, fatigue, headache, and irritability.

Should I Avoid Alcohol While Taking Anxil?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking imipramine, as this can increase the risk of side effects and may impair your thinking and reactions.

Is Anxil A Controlled Substance?

In the United States, imipramine is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it has some potential for abuse and misuse.

When Should I Stop Taking Anxil?

It is important to speak to your doctor before stopping imipramine. Depending on your symptoms and other factors, your doctor may advise you to either stop taking the medication or taper off the dose gradually.

Do I Need To Have Lab Tests While Taking Anxil?

Your doctor may recommend that you have regular laboratory tests done while taking imipramine, to check your liver and kidney function.

What If I Take An Overdose Of Anxil?

If you think you have taken an overdose of imipramine, seek medical attention immediately. You may need to have your stomach pumped or have other treatments to prevent complications.

Does Anxil Interact With Other Drugs?

Anxil may interact with other drugs, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Can I Drive While Taking Anxil?

Anxil can cause drowsiness, so it is important to be careful when driving while taking this medication. Do not drive if you feel drowsy or impaired.

What Are The Food And Drug Interactions With Anxil?

Certain foods and drugs can interact with imipramine, such as alcohol, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, aspirin, and certain blood pressure medications. Talk to your doctor about the potential drug and food interactions before taking imipramine.

Can Anxil Be Taken With Food Or Without?

Anxil can be taken with or without food. However, it is important to take the medication at the same time each day to ensure consistent levels of the drug in the body.

What Should I Do If I Experience Side Effects While Taking Anxil?

If you experience any side effects while taking imipramine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about it. Depending on the severity of the side effects, your doctor may adjust your dosage or suggest a different medication.

Should I Take Anxil In The Morning Or Night?

Anxil can be taken in the morning or night, but it is important to take it at the same time each day. Your doctor may suggest that you take it at night, as it can cause drowsiness.

Does Anxil Have Any Interaction With Alcohol?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking imipramine, as this can increase the risk of side effects and may impair your thinking and reactions.

What Are The Common Side Effects Of Anxil?

Common side effects of imipramine include drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, constipation, vision changes, enlarged pupils, and sexual dysfunction.

Can Anxil Be Used To Treat Anxiety?

Anxil can be used to treat symptoms of anxiety, such as panic attacks and fearfulness. Your doctor may suggest this medication if other treatments have not been effective.

Is Anxil Addictive?

Anxil does have a potential for abuse and misuse, so it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks before taking this medication.

Can I Stop Taking Anxil Suddenly?

It is important not to stop taking imipramine suddenly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will advise you on the best way to taper your dose or switch to a different medication.

Should Anxil Be Taken With Or Without Food?

Anxil can be taken with or without food. However, it is important to take the medication at the same time each day to ensure consistent levels of the drug in the body.

Are There Any Natural Alternatives To Anxil?

There are some natural alternatives to imipramine, such as exercise, mindfulness meditation, yoga, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Talk to your doctor about these alternatives and find out if they are suitable for you.

Are There Any Long-Term Effects Of Taking Anxil?

Long-term use of imipramine can cause an increase in blood pressure, so it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication.

Can Anxil Cause An Increase In Blood Pressure?

Long-term use of imipramine can cause an increase in blood pressure. It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication.

Can Anxil Raise Cholesterol Levels?

Studies have shown that imipramine can raise cholesterol levels, which is why it is important to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly while taking this medication.

Is Anxil Safe To Take With Antidepressant Medications?

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking imipramine with other medications, as some drugs may interact with imipramine in a way that can be dangerous.

Can I Take Over-The-Counter Medications While Taking Anxil?

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications with imipramine, as some drugs may interact with imipramine in a way that can be dangerous.

Can Anxil Cause Heart Palpitations?

Anxil can cause heart palpitations in some people, so it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any unusual changes in your heart rate.

Can Anxil Be Used To Treat Bipolar Disorder?

Anxil is not usually used to treat bipolar disorder. Instead, mood stabilizers such as lithium and anticonvulsants such as lamotrigine are more commonly prescribed.

Is Anxil Used To Treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Anxil can be used to treat symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, such as anxiety, fear, and flashbacks. Talk to your doctor about this treatment option if other treatments have not been effective.

Can Anxil Cause Suicide-Related Thoughts Or Behavior?

Anxil is not usually associated with suicide-related thoughts or behavior. However, it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any changes in mood or other mental health symptoms while taking this medication.