Clomipramine is used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
It reduces unwanted or persistent thoughts (obsessions) and lessens the urge to perform repetitive tasks (compulsions) that disrupt daily life.
Belongs to the class of tricyclic antidepressants.
Works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances, including serotonin, in the brain.
Dosage and administration
Read the Medication Guide from your pharmacist before starting clomipramine and with each refill.
Take the medication by mouth with or without food, following your doctor’s instructions.
To minimize side effects, clomipramine may start at a low dose, given multiple times daily with meals, then increased gradually.
Once the best dose is reached, take the total dose once daily at bedtime to prevent daytime drowsiness.
Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely; do not adjust the dose without consulting your doctor.
Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless deemed safe by your doctor, as it can increase side effects.
Use the medication regularly, even if feeling well, and take it at the same time(s) each day.
Do not suddenly stop the medication without consulting your doctor; withdrawal symptoms may occur.
Gradual dose reduction may be necessary to stop the drug safely.
It may take 2 to 3 weeks or longer to notice the full effects; inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side effects
Common side effects: dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, changes in appetite/weight, flushing, sweating, tiredness, blurred vision.
Temporary worsening of anxiety symptoms may occur initially.
Inform doctor or pharmacist if side effects persist or worsen.
To reduce dizziness, rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
Manage dry mouth with sugarless hard candy, ice chips, gum, water, or saliva substitute.
Prevent constipation with dietary fiber, water, exercise, and possibly a laxative.
Medication prescribed considering benefits outweigh risks; serious side effects are rare.
Inform doctor of serious side effects, including mental/mood changes, enlarged/painful breasts, irregular/painful menstrual periods, muscle stiffness, ringing in the ears, sexual problems, shakiness, numbness/tingling, trouble urinating, easy bleeding/bruising, unusual movements, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing of eyes/skin.
Potential for serotonin syndrome/toxicity; seek medical help for symptoms like fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, twitching muscles, unexplained fever, unusual agitation/restlessness.
Seek immediate medical help for very serious side effects like black stools, chest pain, fainting, slow/fast/irregular heartbeat, seizures, vomit resembling coffee grounds, eye pain/swelling/redness, widened pupils, vision changes.
Rare but serious allergic reactions; get immediate medical help for symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Not a complete list; contact doctor or pharmacist for other possible side effects.
Precautions
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of allergies to clomipramine or other tricyclic antidepressants, as well as any other allergies.
Discuss medical history, especially bleeding problems, blood disorders, breathing problems, glaucoma, eating disorders, heart problems, intestinal problems, liver or kidney problems, mental/mood conditions, history of severe reactions to medications, seizures, overactive thyroid, trouble urinating, and conditions that increase seizure risk.
Clomipramine may cause QT prolongation, potentially leading to a serious or fatal irregular heartbeat. Discuss with your doctor if you have certain heart problems or a family history of such problems.
Low potassium or magnesium levels may increase QT prolongation risk. Talk to your doctor if using certain drugs (e.g., diuretics) or experiencing conditions like severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.
The medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision until safe. Limit alcohol and marijuana use.
Inform healthcare providers about medication use before surgery or dental procedures.
Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, especially bleeding, confusion, dizziness, and QT prolongation. The risk of falling increases with dizziness and confusion.
During pregnancy, use only when necessary; discuss risks and benefits with your doctor. Newborns exposed to clomipramine may experience withdrawal symptoms; seek medical attention for certain signs in a newborn.
Do not stop taking the medication without doctor’s guidance, especially for untreated mental/mood problems. Discuss pregnancy plans with your doctor and consult if planning or becoming pregnant during use.
The drug passes into breast milk, potentially affecting a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Additional information
Brand Name:
Anafranil
Scientific Name:
Clomipramine
Other Names:
Anafranil, Clofranil
Strength(s):
10mg, 25mg, 50mg
Quantities Available:
90, 100, 200
Formulation:
Tablet
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Anafranil
Clomipramine
