Question

A client with a diagnosis of depression is started on imipramine (Tofranil), 75 mg by mouth at bedtime. The nurse should tell the client that:

1. this medication may be habit forming and will be discontinued as soon as the client feels better.
2. this medication has no serious adverse effects.
3. the client should avoid eating such foods as aged cheeses, yogurt, and chicken livers while taking the medication.
4. this medication may initially cause tiredness, which should become less bothersome over time.

Answer 1

The nurse should inform the client that imipramine (Tofranil), a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression, may initially cause tiredness, which tends to decrease over time. The other options presented are incorrect; imipramine is not habit-forming, does have potential serious adverse effects, and does not require dietary restrictions related to foods like aged cheeses.

Step-by-step explanation:

When educating a client who is starting on imipramine (Tofranil) for the treatment of depression, the nurse should clarify that:

1. This medication is not habit-forming and is not discontinued as soon as the client feels better, but rather taken for a period prescribed by the physician.
2. This medication can have serious adverse effects, and any concerning symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
3. The client does not need to avoid foods like aged cheeses, yogurt, and chicken livers; this dietary restriction is more relevant to MAO inhibitors, not tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine.
4. This medication may initially cause tiredness, which generally becomes less bothersome over time. Other common side effects include dizziness, loss of sexual desire, and dry mouth.

Continued observation and communication with the healthcare provider are important to manage any side effects and to ensure the best possible treatment outcome.