MedDataToolMedDataTool

Anafranil

Generic: Clomipramine Hydrochloride

Rx only
Tricyclic antidepressant✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗
Anafranil is a medication used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), helping to reduce unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors. It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood and anxiety. You typically start with a dose of 25 mg daily, which can be gradually increased to a maximum of 250 mg per day for adults, and it’s taken in capsule form, often with meals to lessen stomach issues. A key warning is that it can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in younger patients, so close monitoring is important. Additionally, you should not take Anafranil if you are currently using monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as this can lead to serious side effects.
✦

Uses

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
◷

Dosage

Adults start at 25 mg daily, increase to 100 mg over 2 weeks.
Maximum dose for adults is 250 mg daily.
Children start at 25 mg daily, increase to 3 mg/kg or 100 mg.
Maximum dose for children is 3 mg/kg or 200 mg.
Take with meals to reduce stomach issues.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
⚠

Side effects

Common

dry mouthconstipationnauseadizzinessfatigue

Serious

seizuressuicidal thoughtsserotonin syndrome
🛑

Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young patients.
  • Monitor for worsening depression or unusual behavior.
  • Do not use with MAO inhibitors.
  • Caution in patients with a history of seizures.
  • Risk of serotonin syndrome with certain drugs.
⇄

Drug interactions

  • Haloperidolincreases plasma levels of AnafranilMonitor
  • MAO inhibitorsserious risk of serotonin syndromeCaution
  • Phenobarbitalincreases plasma levels of phenobarbitalMonitor
  • Cimetidinemay increase Anafranil levelsCaution
  • Fluoxetinemay increase Anafranil levels.Caution

Ask about this drug

Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

AI
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).