Imipramine is one of a group of antidepressants known as tricyclics. It can help balance chemicals in the brain for improved mood. Special precautions need to be heeded by persons taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors, blood thinners, tranquilizers and antihistamines because of possibly dangerous interactions. Imipramine may also have an exaggerated effect on people younger than 24 years of age as well as those who drink alcohol, according to MedlinePlus. There are a number of side effects possible from taking imipramine including those from stopping the medication abruptly.
Nausea
One of the side effects from stopping imipramine is nausea, according to Drugs.com. An upset stomach and vomiting can also occur as side effects during the course of taking imipramine. Along with nausea from stopping imipramine, loss of appetite and weight can occur.
Increased Psychosis
Stopping imipramine may cause an increase in the negative thought patterns the medication is meant to treat. MayoClinic.com says that patients shouldn't stop taking the medication without consulting with a doctor. Doctors may instruct the patient to "ramp down" the dosage of imipramine by reducing the dosage over a period of time. This not only helps lessen the possibility of increasing any psychotic thoughts the medication is meant to balance, but will help avoid other symptoms of medication withdrawal.
Malaise
Stopping imipramine treatment can cause a general feeling of illness or malaise, which may be partnered with tiredness, fatigue and a lowered ability to accomplish tasks. These effects can also be components of mild depression, according to MedlinePlus. Since the feelings are somewhat vague and hard to describe, patients sometimes do not realize the condition has been caused by stopping imipramine treatment.
Headaches
Stopping imipramine may cause headaches similar to those associated with stopping the intake of caffeine. MayoClinic.com advises a gradual lessening of imipramine dosage in coordination with a doctor's oversight and recommendations in order to avoid these headaches.
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