Clomipramine
Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant used particularly for obsessive-compulsive disorder and sometimes depression. It can be dangerous in overdose. Listed uses include obsessive-compulsive disorder and major depressive disorder.
Key points
- Benefit develops gradually; early adverse effects or mood worsening need review rather than an independent dose change.
- Do not stop clomipramine suddenly because withdrawal and recurrence can occur.
- Combining serotonergic or heart-rhythm medicines can cause serious toxicity.
Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on mental-health assessment, prescription, interaction and pharmacy checks.
How it works
Clomipramine increases serotonin and noradrenaline signalling and blocks several other receptors, contributing to dry mouth, constipation, sedation and low blood pressure.
Important safety checks
Review suicidal thoughts, bipolar disorder, seizures, heart disease, glaucoma, urinary retention, constipation, liver disease, pregnancy and all serotonergic, sedating or QT-prolonging medicines. Avoid monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for overdose, suicidal intent, seizure, fainting, a new irregular heartbeat, severe agitation with fever and stiffness, inability to urinate, facial swelling or breathing difficulty.