Clofranil

Common use

Clofranil is a tricyclic antidepressant that is used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults (OCD). It can also be used to treat muscular weakness (cataplexy) linked with narcolepsy (repeated bouts of drowsiness) and depression that hasn't responded to previous treatments.

Dosage and direction

Follow your doctor's instructions on the dosage and duration of Clofranil tablet. Take it all in at once. It should not be chewed, crushed, or broken. Clofranil tablet should be consumed after food. Because it can make you tired, it's best to take it before night. It can be taken with or without food, but for best results, take it at the same time every day.

Precautions

Clofranil may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Therefore, it is advised not to drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
It is recommended to consult with your doctor before using Clofranil during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Caution should be exercised when using Clofranil in individuals with conditions such as seizures, glaucoma, heart disease, liver or kidney disease, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Contraindications

Clofranil is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Clomipramine or any tricyclic antidepressants. It should not be used by individuals who have recently had a heart attack or have severe liver impairment.

Possible side effect

The majority of side effects are minor and will go away as your body adjusts to Clofranil tablet. If they don't go away or you're concerned about them, see your doctor. Side effects of Clofranil: Dryness in mouth, Constipation, Altered libido, Difficulty in urination, Dizziness, Fatigue, Impotence, Increased appetite, Indigestion, Loss of appetite.

Drug interaction

Clofranil can interact with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (such as Isocarboxazid and phenelzine), Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) (like Fluoxetine and venlafaxine), triptans (Sumatriptan and rizatriptan), and Opiate analgesics (Tramadol).
It can also interact with antiarrhythmics (Quinidine, Flecainide), anticholinergics (Benztropine, Dicyclomine), barbiturates (Phenobarbital), anticonvulsants (Phenytoin and Carbamazepine) and anticoagulants (Warfarin).

Missed dose

If you missed a dose of Clofranil, take the medication as soon as you remember. However, avoid doubling the dose.

Overdose

Overdose of Clofranil may cause irregular heartbeat, hypotension, seizures, coma, or respiratory depression. If this occurs, immediately contact poison control or emergency medical services.

Storage

Clofranil should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Store in a tightly closed container. Protect from moisture. Keep away from children.