perscription (imipramine) and diving

[SIXMANFAN]

Need information on diving while taking imipramine. I have spoke to my Dr. but he is telling me that he is not familiar enough with diving to make that decision. I don't have a dive medicine Dr. in my area. I have been on this medication for most of my adult life and have had no side effects. I want to start recreational diving but I want to make sure it is safe.
INFORMATION PLEASE,
Thank you

 

[sharpenu]

First, welcome to the board!

Second, imipramine has been shown to lower the seizure threshold, and can impair the mental abilities to carry out hazardous tasks. This would complicate diving. IMO, this would not be an absolute contraindication, but I would approach diving on this drug with extreme caution.

Of course, I am not a Doctor and any decision should be made after discussing the issue with him, even if you need to consult with DAN.

 

[saildiver]

Need information on diving while taking imipramine. I have spoke to my Dr. but he is telling me that he is not familiar enough with diving to make that decision. I don't have a dive medicine Dr. in my area. I have been on this medication for most of my adult life and have had no side effects. I want to start recreational diving but I want to make sure it is safe.
INFORMATION PLEASE,
Thank you

First of all-I'm a psychiatrist who has been diving since I was 17 with background in Marine Biology and marine Medical Science. I'm extremely familiar with Imipramine. Let me ask you a couple questions before I respond. 1) How long have you been on Imipramine? 2) For what condition was it prescibed? 3)When will you (or have you been) certified (PADI ,NAUI,or other)? 4) Have you had panic attacks? 5) Do you have any other mental or physical problems? 6) Have you ever done any snorkeling(how deep?) ,breathholding, board diving? 7) What is your heart rate and blood pressure? 8) Where do you live? Maybe I could direct you to someone if neccessary. Although this won't take the place of a 1:1 evaluation ,it may be quite helpful to you. Please feel free to private meesage me if you feel this contains confidential content and I will private message back to you (I Strongly recomend this).Peace....Saildiver.