Anafranil (Clomipramine)

Description

Anafranil is a tricyclic antidepressant that is used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder. Commonly known as clomipramine, this drug is used to treat depression as well. Since these medications can result in recurring suicidal thoughts, the individual must be observed very carefully.

 

How it works

 

These drugs work by affecting the neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine tend to be low in people with mood disorders. Sometimes, the reuptake sites in the brain absorb these transmitters before they finish their task. This reduces the level of chemicals in the brain. The drug works by blocking these reuptake sites and thereby allowing a greater level of chemicals in the brain.

 

Its benefits

 

The medication’s main purpose is to treat obsessive compulsive disorder. It reduces the urge to perform the compulsions and thereby makes daily living much less stressful. The drug is also used to treat other psychological issues such as depression and panic attacks.

 

 

 

Dosage

 

The medication can be taken with or without food as directed by your physician. Its best to start the treatment with a low dosage and allow your body to get accustomed to the medication before moving on to a larger dosage. This will enable you to decrease the risk of side effects such as stomach upset. Once your healthcare provider determines your dosage by analyzing your response to the treatment, you can take the medication once a day. Since the medication can result in drowsiness, you might want to ask your physician whether it would be alright to consume it in the night.

 

The usual dose for adults is 250mgs and 200mgs for children.

 

Side effects

 

Keep an eye out for the following side effects that may/may not occur during your treatment period.

 

 Constipation
 Sweating
 Nausea
 Irritability
 Loss of appetite
 Tiredness
 Muscle weakness
 Vomiting
 Nightmares

 

Make sure to contact your physician at the occurrence of these effects to reverse them as soon as possible.

 

Precautions

 

It is possible to reduce the occurrence of the above side effects by following the precautionary methods given below.

 

 Grapefruit can increase the amount of this drug in your body. Therefore, avoid eating or drinking it

 

 Consume this medication regularly in order to experience its highest benefits

 

 Stopping this medication abruptly can result in withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, dizziness, nausea and headache. So, do not to do so without your physician’s permission

 

 Do not consume alcohol during your treatment period since it can increase your drowsiness

 

 This medication can make you susceptible to tiredness and fainting, so, abstain from physical exercises

 

 This medication can increase suicidal thoughts amongst children and teenagers, so, keep an eye out for these individuals

 

 Take regular lab tests to keep an eye on your blood count since it can decrease as a result of this drug treatment

 

Self-care

 

It is not known whether this medication can harm the fetus or not. Nevertheless, it is best to temporarily stop using this medication during periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding. Do not stop the treatment abruptly since it can result in withdrawal symptoms. Consult your physician for safe advice.

 

Using this medication can increase sunburn. So, avoid the sun as much as possible. You can use sunscreen or wear protective clothing to avoid this problem.