If You Can't Find Imipramine, You're Not Alone

You've been taking Imipramine for months — maybe years — and suddenly your pharmacy tells you it's out of stock. No timeline for when it'll be back. No clear answers. If this sounds familiar, you're not imagining things. Many patients across the country have struggled to fill their Imipramine prescriptions in recent years, and the problem hasn't gone away in 2026.

In this article, we'll explain what Imipramine is, why it can be difficult to find, and — most importantly — what you can do to get your medication filled.

What Is Imipramine?

Imipramine (brand names Tofranil and Tofranil-PM) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that has been used since the late 1950s. It was one of the first antidepressants ever developed and remains an important medication for many patients today.

Imipramine is FDA-approved to treat depression and nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) in children aged 6 and older. Doctors also prescribe it off-label for panic disorder, chronic neuropathic pain, PTSD, and anxiety disorders.

It works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Imipramine is available as tablets (10 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg) and capsules (75 mg, 100 mg, 125 mg, and 150 mg).

For more details about how this drug works, see our guide on how Imipramine works.

Why Is Imipramine Hard to Find in 2026?

There are several reasons why you might have trouble finding Imipramine at your local pharmacy. Here are the main factors:

1. Limited Number of Manufacturers

Imipramine is an older, off-patent medication. Because generic drugs like Imipramine are sold at very low prices, many pharmaceutical companies have stopped making it. Fewer manufacturers means less supply overall, and any disruption at one facility can create shortages across the country.

2. Low Profit Margins Reduce Production Interest

Generic Imipramine tablets can cost as little as $8 to $16 for a 30-day supply with a discount coupon. While that's great for patients, it means manufacturers earn very little from each prescription. This financial reality makes companies less likely to invest in maintaining steady production of the drug.

3. Supply Chain Disruptions

Global supply chain issues continue to affect pharmaceutical manufacturing in 2026. Shortages of raw materials, shipping delays, and regulatory inspections can all interrupt the flow of medications like Imipramine to pharmacy shelves. Since fewer companies make it, there's less cushion when problems arise.

4. The Pamoate Capsule Formulation Is Especially Scarce

If you take Imipramine Pamoate (the capsule form, sold as Tofranil-PM), you may have an even harder time finding it. Even fewer manufacturers produce the pamoate capsule, and its retail price is significantly higher — often $90 to over $450 without insurance. This combination of limited supply and low demand makes it particularly difficult to stock.

What You Can Do If You Can't Find Imipramine

Don't panic — there are practical steps you can take to get your medication:

Use Medfinder to Check Pharmacy Stock

Medfinder lets you search for Imipramine availability at pharmacies near you in real time. Instead of calling dozens of pharmacies yourself, you can see which ones have it in stock right now. It's free and takes just a few seconds.

Try Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

Large chain pharmacies often run out of less common medications faster because they use centralized ordering systems. Independent pharmacies may have more flexibility to order Imipramine directly from wholesalers. They may also be more willing to help you track down your medication.

Ask Your Doctor About Alternatives

If you truly cannot find Imipramine, your doctor may be able to switch you to a similar tricyclic antidepressant like Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, or Desipramine. These drugs work in similar ways and may be easier to find. Read more in our article on alternatives to Imipramine.

Ask Your Pharmacist to Order It

Even if a pharmacy doesn't have Imipramine on the shelf, they can often order it from their wholesaler. Ask your pharmacist to place a special order — it usually arrives within 1-3 business days.

Consider Mail-Order Pharmacies

Mail-order and online pharmacies often have access to broader supply networks. Your insurance plan may even offer a mail-order option with lower copays for a 90-day supply.

For a complete walkthrough, check out our guide on how to find Imipramine in stock near you.

Final Thoughts

Finding Imipramine shouldn't feel like a treasure hunt, but the reality of generic drug manufacturing means that older medications like this one can sometimes be hard to come by. The good news is that Imipramine is not currently on the FDA's official shortage list, so most patients can find it with a little extra effort.

If you're struggling to fill your prescription, start by searching Medfinder to see which pharmacies near you have Imipramine in stock. And if cost is a concern, read our guide on how to save money on Imipramine.