Clomipramine
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Clomipramine (Anafranil) is a tricyclic antidepressant.
Conditions in which clomipramine is to be used with caution
epilepsy, closed angle glaucoma, Increased Pressure in Eyes, Recent Heart attack, heart disease and blood vessels, Asthma, Disorder of the digestive system, Liver Problems, Kidney disease, Enlarged Prostate, Cannot Empty Bladder, Overactive Thyroid Gland, Blood disorder, Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, alcoholism.
Allergies
TRICYCLIC COMPOUNDS
USAGE
This medication is used in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD). It may take 2 to 3 weeks before the full effects of this medication are noticed.
OTHER USES
This medication has also been used to treat depression and panic attacks.
HOW TO USE
Take this medication exactly as prescribed. When first taking this medication, your doctor may increase your dose gradually to determine the best effective dose.
This medication may be taken with food to prevent stomach upset.
Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor's approval. Nausea, headache or fatigue can occur if the drug is suddenly stopped.
SIDE EFFECTS, PRECAUTIONS AND INTERACTIONS
SIDE EFFECTS
This medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, increased sun sensitivity or blurred vision. Use caution performing tasks that require alertness.
This medication may initially cause dizziness and lightheadedness when rising too quickly from a sitting or lying position. Change positions and get out of bed slowly.
Other side effects may include heartburn, weight gain, dry mouth, strange taste in mouth, anxiety, restlessness or sweating. These effects should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if they continue or become bothersome.
Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, a rapid heart rate, difficulty urinating, nightmares, ringing in the ears, excessive sedation, uncoordinated movements, fainting.
Males may experience sexual dysfunction while taking this medication. In about 5% of patients, it can instead cause inadvertant orgasms when yawning.
In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
PRECAUTIONS
Before using this drug tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: glaucoma, prostate problems, decreased urine output, thyroid disease, breathing problems, seizure problems, alcohol use, heart disease, mental/emotional problems, liver or kidney disease, drug allergies.
This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear a sunscreen and protective clothing.
Limit alcohol while using this drug to avoid excessive drowsiness.
Though uncommon, depression itself can lead to thoughts or attempts of suicide. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any suicidal thoughts, or other mental/mood changes. Keep all medical appointments so your doctor can monitor your progress closely.
Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly, because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug (e.g., confusion may occur or worsen).
This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This drug is excreted into breast milk. The effects on the infant are not known at this time. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Inform your doctor about what drugs you take especially of: drugs used to treat an over-active thyroid, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), other tranquilizers, medicines that make you excited, high blood pressure drugs, narcotic pain medications (e.g., codeine), SSRI antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, fluvoxamine), other drugs you use (both prescription and non- prescription), St John's wort.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222.
Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include flushing, fast or irregular heartbeat, dry mouth, drowsiness, confusion, agitation, enlarged pupils, seizures, and loss of consciousness.