Clomipramine

No Comments

Clomipramine is a psychoactive/psychiatric drug used as an antidepressant and anxiolytic agent. It is a member of the tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) chemical class. It is used mainly in the treatment for long term depression. and is usually prescribed with another tricyclic (or drug from a different class) would be used. It is said to lift moods, increase physical activity, improve appetite and restore interest in everyday activities. If taken at night clomipramine will help to promote sleep if part of the problem is insomnia. The medication is particularly useful with irrational fears, obsessive behaviour and phobic disorders. Before the full effects are felt it would need to be taken for many weeks

Along with selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI’s), clomipramine is a frequently prescribed drug for the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). As is typical with the older tricyclic antidepressants (the tertiary amines), it has more side effects than SSRIs, so some authorities regard it as a second-line treatment to be used if treatment when selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI’s) fail.

Clomipramine and the SSRIs (specifically paroxetine) have also been used to treat premature ejaculation (PE) off-prescription. Premature ejaculation (PE) means coming too quickly, and it’s one of the commonest of all sexual problems. It appears that this problem is more confined to young men, this is because as the male gets older he gets better at controling the desire to ejeculate to soon. However a survey done in 2004 showed that there are still a percentage of middle-aged men still have the problem.

Quick Guide

• Antidepressant danger of overdose – HIGH.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – YES. (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Alcohol may increase sedative effect of clomipramine.

Side Effects

You may if prescribed clomipramine suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all. It does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, sweating, constipation, flushing, dry mouth.
Rare: Difficulty passing water, palpitations, rash.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using clomipramine. It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

It is documented that no problems would be expected. As with all High risk drugs stopping this drug suddenly after prolonged use may cause severe withdrawal symptoms as well as a possible reoccurence of the initial problems. Regular checks on the heart and liver functions would be recommended.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Avoid driving/hazardous work until you know how Clomipramine affects you. This medication may cause blurred vision and drowsiness. Alcohol may increase the sedative effect of clomipramine.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

It has not been established safe during pregnancy. If breast feeding,this drug passes into the milk and may affect your baby. Discuss both areas with your doctor.

Clomipramine is classified a pregnancy Category C medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor Or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary/alternative preparations.

Over 60′s & Children

A reduced dosage may be necessary for the over sixties to reduce the likelihood of adverse effects. This drug is not recommended for either infant or children.

Overdose

Take clomipramine exactly as directed by your doctor. Large overdose may cause palpitations and loss of consciousness. Notify your doctor immediately or go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital taking the container with you. Even if it is empty.

Other Medication Reactions

All drugs that have a sedative effect on the nervous system will more likely than not increase the the sedative properties of clomipramine. Serious interaction may occur if Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s) are taken along side clomipramine. An MAOI should not be started until at least 7–14 days after a tricyclic or related antidepressant (3 weeks in the case of clomipramine or imipramine) has been stopped. A tricyclic or related antidepressant (or an SSRI or related antidepressant) should not be started until 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI (3 weeks if starting clomipramine or imipramine). Anti-epileptic the effects of these type of drug may be reduced by clomipramine. The reverse may also be true. Quinidine there is an increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms if this drug is taken with clomipramine. Antihypertensive there may be enhanced effects if taken along side Clomipramine

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Ideally you would already know the answer to this question. Failing this ring the surgery or check next time you see your doctor.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

To stop taking this medication abruptly could result in withdrawal symptoms. This may also lead to a recurrence of the problem.

Effect Of Medication

It is possible to feel some effects within days. However, To feel the full effects could take up to 4 weeks. During prolonged treatment effects may last up to 2 weeks.

Storage and Safety

• Keep clomipramine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take clomipramine if it has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines/drugs to your pharmacist. who will dispose of them safely.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.

Natural Remedy

Depression can be a natural response to a period of crisis/emotional upset. Sleeping habits often become upset during this period the sufferer getting either to little or to much. If you find yourself in this corner then the Aromatherapist would recommend, Citrus Essences, Clary Sage, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Sandal Wood. Consistent depression, Chronic depression needs professional help. Arrange to see your GP (doctor) he may be able to put you in touch with a counsellor or a psychotherapist. Mild depression can be helped by aromatherapy…