Uses

Anafranil (clomipramine) is a prescription-only medication from a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). These drugs derive their name from the three rings that make up their chemical structure. This medication works by increasing the amount of serotonin and norepinephrine in the body—two neurotransmitters that, when increased, may help reduce anxiety and behaviors associated with obsessive compulsion.

What Mental Health Conditions Are Treated with Anafranil?

Anafranil is prescribed by psychiatrists to address obsessive compulsive thoughts and behaviors in children, teens, and adults. This medication may help control the thoughts and repetitive behaviors that accompany OCD; however, it is not intended as a cure for the condition. Typically people experiencing obsessive compulsive behaviors also seek treatment from a trained therapist or mental health professional.

Medication and Dosage FAQs

• How should I take this medication?
  Anafranil comes in capsule form and should be taken with food. Your doctor may advise you to start by taking this medication three times per day, with meals, in order to help your body acclimatize to the drug. Over time, your dosage may be adjusted to a single capsule taken at bedtime. You should not adjust your own dosage; instead, work with your health care provider to find the most effective amount of medication for you. It may take several weeks before you experience the full benefits of taking this medication. It is important to take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Always read the medication guide each time you refill your prescription as new information may have been added.

• What should I do if I forgot to take my medication?
  Take the dose you forgot as soon as you remember it. However, if it will soon be time for your next regular dose, skip the missed dose completely. Do not take two doses of this medication over a short period of time, as this may result in an overdose.
• What should I do if I took too much of this medication?
  Call a poison helpline, contact your health care provider, and seek emergency medical attention immediately. An overdose of this medication may be deadly. Signs of Anafranil overdose include drowsiness, slurred or slow speech, rapid heart rate, congestive heart failure, seizures, coma, or loss of consciousness.
• Who should not take this medication?
  People who are being treated with methylene blue injection and people who have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) in the past two weeks should not take this drug as a deadly drug interaction may occur. This medication is not approved for use by elderly people unless it is being used to treat OCD. Individuals under the age of 18 should not use this medication unless advised by a medical professional.
• How can I get the most out of my treatment with this drug?
  Anafranil is primarily prescribed to treat OCD behaviors and thoughts. These conditions are also regularly treated with various types of psychotherapy, resulting in positive outcomes for many. Although this medication may lessen the severity of symptoms, it cannot address the issue in the same way as a therapist or counselor, who may help you develop positive coping strategies, a good self-care routine, and teach you more about what you are experiencing. If you are prescribed this drug, please consider finding a therapist or counselor with whom you can establish a good therapeutic relationship and work toward better long-term mental health.
• How should I store this medication?
  Keep Anafranil at a temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 and 25 degrees Celsius). Store this medication in a container with a child-protected closure, away from moisture.