Anafranil (clomipramine) is an antidepressant medication used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression in adults. It belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Anafranil works by affecting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, specifically serotonin and norepinephrine, both of which are involved in regulating mood.
Anafranil is available as both an oral tablet and an oral capsule. The usual starting dose for adults is 25 mg taken twice a day. The dose may be increased by 25 mg every 3 to 4 days until the desired effect is achieved. The maximum recommended dose is 200 mg per day.
Anafranil is generally well tolerated, but it may cause side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, and blurred vision. It can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in people under the age of 24. Patients taking Anafranil should be monitored closely for signs of suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Anafranil has also been used off-label to treat premature ejaculation. A recent systematic review found that Anafranil was effective in treating premature ejaculation, although the results were not as strong as with other medications.
Anafranil can interact with other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking. Anafranil should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or other tricyclic antidepressants.
In conclusion, Anafranil is an effective antidepressant medication used to treat OCD and depression in adults. It is generally well tolerated, but it can cause side effects and interact with other medications. It has also been used off-label to treat premature ejaculation.
References:
Holland, J. M., & Goldsmith, T. D. (2020). Anafranil (Clomipramine): A Review of Its Use in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Depression. Drugs, 80(11), 1213–1235. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-020-01253-3
Gur, S., Kadioglu, P., & Yildiz, M. (2011). The efficacy of clomipramine in the treatment of premature ejaculation: A systematic review. Sexual Medicine Reviews, 3(2), 59-64. https://doi.org/10.1002/smrj.14