What is this medication for?
Clomipramine belongs to the class of medications known as tricyclic antidepressants. It is used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorders. These disorders are related to imbalances of certain brain chemicals. This medication helps to rebalance these chemicals.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Anafranil® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult starting dose of clomipramine is 25 mg daily, increased slowly over several weeks to a maximum of 250 mg a day.
The usual dose for children 10 years of age and older is 25 mg daily and gradually increased according to response and body weight. The maximum dose is 3 mg per kilogram or 200 mg daily in divided doses, whichever is the lowest effective dose.
Take this medication in divided doses and with meals to reduce stomach upset. Once you are on a stable dose, clomipramine may be taken as a one time dose at bedtime to minimize drowsiness during the day.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you:
- are allergic to clomipramine, other tricyclic antidepressants, or any ingredients of the medication
- are recovering from a heart attack
- are taking or have taken a MAO inhibitor (e.g., moclobemide, phenelzine) within the last 14 days