Tofranil

General feelings of illness, headache, and nausea can result if you suddenly stop taking Tofranil. Follow your doctor's instructions closely when discontinuing Tofranil.

Tell your doctor if you develop a sore throat or fever while taking Tofranil.

This drug may impair your ability to drive a car or operate potentially dangerous machinery. Do not participate in any activities that require full alertness if you are unsure about your ability.

This drug can make you sensitive to light. Try to stay out of the sun as much as possible while you are taking it.

If you are going to have elective surgery, your doctor will take you off Tofranil.

Both increased and decreased blood sugar levels have been reported during Tofranil therapy. If you have diabetes or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), your doctor will monitor you closely.

Be sure your doctor knows if you have a history of mental disorders. Tofranil could cause a manic episode in people with bipolar disorder or a psychotic episode in those with schizophrenia.

Unless it's absolutely essential, Tofranil is not recommended for people undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Tofranil

Never combine Tofranil with an MAO inhibitor (see "Most important fact about this drug"). If Tofranil is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Tofranil with the following:

• Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)
• Antidepressants that act on serotonin, including Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft
• Antipsychotic drugs such as Mellaril and chlorpromazine
• Barbiturates such as Nembutal and Seconal
• Blood pressure medications such as Catapres
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Decongestants such as Sudafed
• Drugs that control spasms, such as Cogentin
• Epinephrine (EpiPen)
• Flecainide (Tambocor)
• Guanethidine
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
• Norepinephrine
• Other antidepressants such as Elavil and Pamelor
• Phenytoin (Dilantin)
• Propafenone (Rythmol)
• Quinidine
• Thyroid medications such as Synthroid
• Tranquilizers and sleep aids such as Halcion, Xanax, and Valium