Anafranil (Clomipramine) is a medication used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This drug helps decrease persistent thoughts or obsessions. It can also take away the urge for compulsive behaviors that interfere with daily living, like hand-washing, counting, and checking.

How does Anafranil work?

Anafranil belongs to a class of drugs known as tricyclic antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants restore the balance of important chemicals in the brain like serotonin.

Always read the medication information and instructions before using this medication.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Take this drug with food to prevent an upset stomach.
• It can take up to 4 weeks for your symptoms to improve.
• Do not stop taking the medication if you are not noticing symptom improvement instantly.
• Tell your doctor if symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment.
• Do not stop using Anafranil suddenly. It can cause severe withdrawal symptoms.
• Store this drug at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Make sure to tell your doctor:

• If you have a medical history of blood problems, breathing problems, glaucoma, heart problems, eating disorders, liver or kidney problems, mood disorders, or injuries to the brain.
• If you use certain drugs that create low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood, like diuretics (water pills).
• Do not drink on this medication. It can increase side effects and cause severe dizziness. Limit alcoholic beverages and talk to your doctor if you are using marijunana.
• To decrease dizziness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position.
• Children who use this medication and play active sports can be at risk for heart problems.
• Obsessive compulsive disorder is a serious mental disorder, so do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor.

Common side effects of Anafranil:

• Skin rash
• Fever
• Swollen glands
• Flu-like symptoms
• Muscle aches
• Unusual bruising

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• Confusion, extreme fear, thoughts of hurting yourself
• Seizure
• Blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain
• Rapid heart rate
• Tremors or shaking
• Painful or difficult urination

Can pregnant women take this drug?

If you are pregnant, you and your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of using this medication during pregnancy. This drug also passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor.