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Is there evidence of tricyclic antidepressants being successful in treating SM?
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Answer
We have no studies with the use of tricyclic medications and SM and bedwetting. As you know, imiprimine has anti-anxiety effects, so it is worth a try. My experience is that imiprimine does not work as effectively with anxiety and SM as does the SSRI's. My experience is that as anxiety is lowered, the enuresis dissipates. I am not sure why this child has 'wetting,' but perhaps like other SM children, this child CANNOT ask to use the bathroom and over time has held it for so long that the sensation to 'go' has been altered a bit from holding in urine for so long. If it is nighttime issues, again, I have seen bedwetting dissipate when anxiety is lowered with behavioral therapy with or without SSRI therapy.
Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum
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