Anafranil FAQ

Anafranil, also called clomipramine in generic form, is a tricyclic antidepressant drug (TCA) prescribed by medical providers to treat obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is an anxiety related disorder that sees the afflicted person doing repetitive things or having recurring thoughts in amounts excessive to what is considered normal behavior. Anafranil is used to calm the anxiety. It does so by balancing the level of two neurotransmitters (norepinephrine and serotonin), both naturally made chemicals in the brain that help regulate positive and negative aspects of a person’s mood. Off-label uses include the treatment of panic disorder, premature ejaculation, and major depressive disorder.

Because Anafranil is a TCA drug that works on the central nervous system (CNS), there is a list of side effects that need to be watched for. These side effects can include nervousness, confusion, trembling, dizziness when rising, drowsiness, visual changes, weakness, tremor, and seizures. Use of other drugs or alcohol can worsen the side effects. Drugs that interact the most with Anafranil include narcotics, barbiturates, anesthetics (including those used for dental purposes), sedatives and tranquilizers, anxiety and depression prescription medications, muscle relaxers, and pain killers.

TCA drugs like Anafranil are not considered to be addictive, though they can be habit forming, leading to a dependency. Strong withdrawal side effects have been shown to occur if a user suddenly stops taking the drug. These can be very unpleasant and can cause a person to continue use rather than endure the discomfort. Instead, a steady weaning off the drug is favored by the medical community to avoid these side effects.

Are you reliant on using Anafranil or reluctant to discontinue its use? Do you have other questions or concerns about this drug? To learn more, check out our frequently asked questions or contact a representative at The Recovery Village to learn more.