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Clomipramine Coupon - Clomipramine 50mg capsule

clomipramine

Generic Anafranil
Used for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Used for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Clomipramine (Anafranil) is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It can be used by children as young as 10 years old. The medication is taken by mouth and your dosage might increase over several weeks. Clomipramine (Anafranil) isn't a first-choice medication because of the high risk for side effects such as dry mouth, sleepiness, weight gain, and headaches.

Last reviewed on October 16, 2023
basics-icon

What is Clomipramine (Anafranil)?

What is Clomipramine (Anafranil) used for?

  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

How Clomipramine (Anafranil) works

Clomipramine (Anafranil) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It's believed to help raise the amounts of specific chemicals in the brain, like serotonin. This balancing act helps control behavior, feelings, mood, and thoughts linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder.

When does Clomipramine (Anafranil) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAnafranil
Drug ClassTricyclic antidepressant
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$270.810
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$270.81
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What are the side effects of Clomipramine (Anafranil)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Dry mouth (63-84%)
  • Sleepiness (46-54%)
  • Dizziness (41-54%)
  • Tremor (33-54%)
  • Headache (28-52%)
  • Constipation (22-47%)
  • Sexual problems in males (6-42%)
  • Tiredness (35-39%)
  • Nausea (9-33%)
  • Sweating more (9-29%)
  • Trouble sleeping (11-25%)

Other Side Effects

  • Changes in sex drive
  • Indigestion
  • Weight gain
  • Nervousness
  • Trouble urinating
  • Vision changes
  • Stomach pain
  • Changes in appetite
  • Trouble remembering
  • Anxiety
  • Rash

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Seizures
  • Low sodium level: headache, difficulty concentrating or remembering, weakness, feeling unsteady on your feet, seizure, coma
  • Serotonin syndrome: fast heartbeat, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, fever, confusion
  • Serious skin reaction: rash, itching, fever
When do Clomipramine (Anafranil) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Dry mouth
Constipation
Sleepiness
Tremor
Risk of mood changes
Seek immediate medical care if you experience this side effect.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Bladder pain

bloody or cloudy urine

blurred vision

body aches or pain

burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

confusion

difficult, burning, or painful urination

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

excessive muscle tone

fear or nervousness

feeling sad or empty

fever

hearing changes

hives or welts, skin rash

irritability

lower back or side pain

muscle stiffness, tension, or tightness

poor concentration

rhythmic movement of muscles

sneezing

tightness of the chest

trouble breathing

unusual tiredness or weakness

voice changes

Less common

Anger that is hard to control

anxiety

breast enlargement

changes in vision

chest pain or discomfort

chills

decrease in the frequency of urination

deep or fast breathing with dizziness

difficulty in speaking

dry mouth

fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse

headache, severe and throbbing

nausea

numbness of the feet, hands, and around the mouth

numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hands or feet

pain during sexual intercourse

paranoia

rapidly changing moods

restlessness

shaking

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or tongue or inside the mouth

sweating

swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs

vomiting

Incidence not known

Agitation

blindness

cough

decreased awareness or responsiveness

depression

dizziness

eye pain

hostility

increased thirst

loss of consciousness

muscle pain, cramps, or twitching

rapid weight gain

seizures

severe sleepiness

sore throat

swollen, painful, or tender lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin

tearing

unusual drowsiness, dullness, or feeling of sluggishness

yellow skin or eyes

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin

change in taste

constipation

cracked, dry, or scaly skin

change in interest in sexual intercourse

diarrhea

dry skin

heartburn

inability to have or keep an erection

increased interest in sexual intercourse

joint pain or swelling

pimples

redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest

shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet

stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

swelling

trembling or shaking of the hands or feet

Less common

Absent, missed, or irregular menstrual periods

breast pain

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Clomipramine (Anafranil)

thumbs-up

Pros

Can help lessen unwanted thoughts and compulsions for people with OCD

Can be used in children as young as 10 years old

Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

More likely to cause bothersome side effects compared with other medications for OCD

Can affect sex drive or sexual performance for men

Unknown if long-term use (more than 10 weeks) is safe

Careful use in people with certain medical conditions (e.g., overactive thyroid or glaucoma)

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Clomipramine (Anafranil)

pharmacist
  • When you first start taking clomipramine (Anafranil) and your provider is slowly raising your dose, your provider might ask you to take this medication in split doses with meals to lower the risk of stomach upset.

    • Once you're on a stable dose of clomipramine (Anafranil), your provider might recommend you to take it at bedtime because this medication can make you feel sleepy.

      • Don't stop taking clomipramine (Anafranil) all of a sudden or change the amount that you're taking without talking to your provider first. This can cause withdrawal symptoms like nausea, headache, and overall discomfort. If appropriate, your provider can help you stop your medication safely and slowly over time.

        • Antidepressant medications like clomipramine (Anafranil) can raise the risk of suicidal thoughts. Contact your provider right away if you notice any new, worsening, or unusual changes in your behavior or mood while taking this medication.

          • Clomipramine (Anafranil) can cause drowsiness and dizziness, making you less alert. Avoid driving and doing anything that requires concentration or focus until you see how this medication affects you.

            • Clomipramine (Anafranil) can cause you to gain weight. Check your weight regularly after you start this medication. If you're concerned about how much weight you're gaining, talk with your provider.

              • Let your provider know if you're planning to have surgery where you'll need general anesthesia. You might need to temporarily stop clomipramine (Anafranil) and your provider can help you do so safely.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Clomipramine (Anafranil)

                How long does clomipramine (Anafranil) take to work for OCD?
                It usually takes about 6 to 12 weeks for clomipramine (Anafranil) to work for OCD. To avoid stomach-related side effects, your provider will need to start you at a low dose and might slowly raise it if you tolerate the medication. Continue taking clomipramine (Anafranil) as instructed by your provider, even if you don't notice improvement in your OCD symptoms right away.
                Is clomipramine (Anafranil) an SSRI?
                No. Clomipramine (Anafranil) belongs to a class of medications called tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). It doesn't work the same way as an selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
                Is clomipramine (Anafranil) a controlled substance?
                No, clomipramine (Anafranil) isn't a controlled substance. This is because it isn't known to have the potential for misuse or addiction.
                Does clomipramine (Anafranil) cause weight gain?
                It can. In clinical studies, 18% of adults experienced weight gain while taking clomipramine (Anafranil) compared to 1% of adults who took a placebo. If this becomes an issue, let your provider know.
                How long does the side effects last with clomipramine (Anafranil)?
                It's not known how clomipramine (Anafranil) will affect you since everyone responds differently. While drowsiness, tremor, dizziness, headache, and stomach issues are common side effects of clomipramine (Anafranil), they might get better over time as your body adjusts to the medication. Also, your provider will likely start you at a low dose and slowly raise the amount of the medication you take to make sure you aren't having bothersome side effects. If you experience side effects, talk with your provider about slowly lowering your dose or changing to a different medication.
                Does clomipramine (Anafranil) help with anxiety?
                Clomipramine (Anafranil) is only FDA-approved to treat OCD. But it's sometimes used off-label for anxiety. Ask your provider if you have questions about whether clomipramine (Anafranil) is right for you.
                Can you drink alcohol while you're taking clomipramine (Anafranil)?
                Drinking alcohol while taking clomipramine (Anafranil) isn't recommended. It can raise your risk of side effects, especially drowsiness, mood changes, and thoughts of suicide.
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                What are the risks and warnings for Clomipramine (Anafranil)?

                Clomipramine (Anafranil) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Suicidal thoughts or behavior

                • Risk factors: People age 24 years or younger | History of depression or other mood problems | Taking antidepressants | Starting clomipramine (Anafranil) for the first time | Change in dose of clomipramine (Anafranil)

                  Clomipramine (Anafranil) can raise the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior. Watch for new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially during the first few months of treatment or when the dose changes. Let your healthcare provider know right away if you notice any unusual changes in mood or behavior while taking this medication.

                  risk-warning

                  Mania

                  • Risk factors: History of bipolar disorder | At risk for bipolar disorder

                    Sometimes, depression is the first symptom of bipolar disorder. Treating someone with bipolar disorder with an antidepressant alone can cause a manic episode. Symptoms of a manic episode include great excitement, euphoria, delusions, and overactivity. This is more likely to happen if you or someone in your family has had bipolar disorder. Your healthcare provider should make sure you're evaluated for bipolar disorder before starting clomipramine (Anafranil). Talk to your provider right away if you notice unusual changes in your behavior.

                    risk-warning

                    Serotonin syndrome

                    • Risk factors: Taking clomipramine (Anafranil) with other medications that raise serotonin levels

                      Serotonin syndrome is a rare, but potentially life-threatening, condition that happens when there's too much serotonin active in the brain. This is more likely to happen if you're also taking other medications that affect serotonin levels, such as other antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), lithium (Lithobid), and triptans. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include fast heartbeat, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, fever, and confusion. Go to the emergency room right away if you think you are having these symptoms.

                      risk-warning

                      Seizures

                      • Risk factors: History of seizure | Taking other medications that raise seizure risk | Brain damage | Drinking alcohol | Taking higher doses of clomipramine (Anafranil) | Taking clomipramine (Anafranil) for a long time

                        Clomipramine (Anafranil) can raise the chance of seizures for some people, including those who have had seizures in the past. Clomipramine (Anafranil) is generally not recommended if you have a history of seizures. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if this medication is safe for you.

                        risk-warning

                        Dizziness and falls

                        • Risk factors: Older adults | Taking medications to control blood pressure | Raising clomipramine (Anafranil) dose too quickly

                          While taking clomipramine (Anafranil), you might experience dizziness and falls due to a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions (such as going from sitting to standing). If you're sensitive to low blood pressure or are on medications to control your blood pressure, change positions slowly until your body is used to clomipramine (Anafranil). If you still feel dizzy after a week or two, talk to your provider since a different medication may be better for you.

                          risk-warning

                          Eye problems (Angle-closure glaucoma)

                          Clomipramine (Anafranil) can cause your pupils to widen, which, for some people with an underlying eye condition, can lead to an eye problem called angle-closure glaucoma. Symptoms of this can include eye pain, headache, changes in vision, nausea, and vomiting. Your healthcare provider might want you to have an eye exam to see if you have a higher chance of these eye problems before taking clomipramine (Anafranil).

                          risk-warning

                          Low sodium levels

                          • Risk factors: Older adults | Taking water pills

                            Clomipramine (Anafranil) can lower your sodium level. Your risk for this problem is higher if you're also taking water pills, such as furosemide (Lasix). A low sodium level can be dangerous because it might lead to seizures or death. Let your provider know if you experience symptoms such as headache, difficulty concentrating or remembering, weakness, or feeling unsteady on your feet.

                            risk-warning

                            Serious skin reactions

                            Although rare, serious skin reactions called Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) syndrome have been reported with clomipramine (Anafranil). Watch out for symptoms including fever, rash, and internal organ involvement and notify your provider immediately.

                            dosage

                            Clomipramine (Anafranil) dosage forms

                            The average cost for 30 capsules of 50mg of Clomipramine (Anafranil) is $2135.46 with a free GoodRx coupon.0
                            capsule
                            Capsule
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            25mg30 capsules$1054.06$35.14
                            50mg60 capsules$2135.46$35.59
                            75mg30 capsules$1093.37$36.45

                            Typical dosing for Clomipramine (Anafranil)

                            Dosing for clomipramine (Anafranil) is typically started at a low dose and slowly raised by your provider depending on how you respond to the medication.

                            Adults:

                            • Starting dose: The typical starting dose is 25 mg by mouth once a day. Your provider might slowly raise your daily dose to 100 mg split into divided doses during the first 2 weeks.

                            • Maintenance dose: The maximum daily dose is 250 mg by mouth once a day, usually at bedtime.

                            Children and adolescents (10 to 17 years old):

                            • Starting dose: The typical starting dose is 25 mg by mouth once a day. Your child's provider might slowly raise their daily dose to 100 mg or 3 mg/kg (whichever is smaller) split into divided doses during the first 2 weeks.

                            • Maintenance dose: The maximum daily dose is 200 mg or 3 mg/kg by mouth once a day (whichever is smaller), usually at bedtime.

                            interactions

                            Interactions between Clomipramine (Anafranil) and other drugs

                            Clomipramine (Anafranil) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Clomipramine (Anafranil). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                            contraindications-icon

                            Clomipramine (Anafranil) contraindications

                            Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Clomipramine (Anafranil) will not be safe for you to take.
                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Clomipramine (Anafranil)?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Clomipramine (Anafranil). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            latest news

                            What is the latest news about Clomipramine (Anafranil)?

                            images

                            Clomipramine (Anafranil) images

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                            References

                            Best studies we found

                            Elsevier Mental and Behavioral Health. (2012). Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs).

                            Fenske, J. N., et al. (2015). Obsessive-compulsive disorder: Diagnosis and management. American Family Physician.

                            Khazaeni, B., et al. (2023). Acute angle-closure glaucoma. StatPearls.

                            View All References (2)

                            VGYAAN Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2023). Clomipramine hydrochloride capsule [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            Wilson, M., et al. (2022). Clomipramine. StatPearls.

                            GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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