Clomipramine

About clomipramine

Clomipramine is used to treat depression, especially when the patient is experiencing difficulty sleeping.

When depression occurs, there may be a decrease in the amount of the chemicals noradrenaline and serotonin released from nerve cells in the brain. The release of these chemicals results in a mood lifting effect. Clomipramine works by stopping these chemicals from going back into the nerve cells.

Clomipramine can also be used to treat phobias (fears), obsessions, and cataplexy, which is collapsing associated with narcolepsy (extreme sleepiness).

Before taking clomipramine

Before taking clomipramine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or thyroid problems.
• If you have suffered from constipation for a long time.
• If you have had a recent heart attack or have any other heart problems.
• If you have ever suffered from mania (great excitement, hallucinations, difficulty in concentrating or being still) or psychoses (mental health problems).
• If you suffer from epilepsy, phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands), glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye), or porphyria (a blood disorder).
• If you are experiencing or have ever experienced difficulty urinating (passing water).
• If you are having electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
• If you have been told you have low levels of potassium in your blood (hypokalaemia).
• If you are under 18 years of age.
• If you wear contact lenses.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take clomipramine

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take clomipramine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses on the same day to make up.
• If you are taking the SR (slow release) tablets, swallow them whole with a drink of water. Do not chew the tablets.

Getting the most from your treatment

• It may take several weeks before you begin to feel the benefits of this treatment. Do not stop taking clomipramine in the belief that it is not working.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• Do not stop taking clomipramine without speaking to your doctor first. Stopping treatment suddenly can cause problems and your doctor will probably want to reduce your dose gradually.
• Try to avoid alcohol as it will increase feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Clomipramine can cause dry eyes which may be a problem if you normally wear contact lenses. Ask your doctor or optician for advice.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with clomipramine.

Can clomipramine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store clomipramine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines