clomipramine

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.