CLOMIPRAMINE HCL

Drug Name: CLOMIPRAMINE HCL

CLOMIPRAMINE HCL DESCRIPTION:
CLOMIPRAMINE - ORAL (klo-MIP-ruh-meen)

COMMON CLOMIPRAMINE HCL BRAND NAME(S):
Anafranil

CLOMIPRAMINE HCL SIDE EFFECTS:
CLOMIPRAMINE HCL may cause drowsiness, dizziness, increased sun sensitivity or blurred vision. Use caution performing tasks that require alertness. CLOMIPRAMINE HCL may initially cause dizziness and lightheadedness when rising too quickly from a sitting or lying position. Change positions and get out of bed slowly. Other side effects may include heartburn, weight gain, dry mouth, strange taste in mouth, anxiety, restlessness or sweating. These effects should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if they continue or become bothersome. Notify your doctor if you develop chest pain, a rapid heart rate, difficulty urinating, nightmares, ringing in the ears, excessive sedation, uncoordinated movements or fainting. Males may experience sexual dysfunction while taking this medication. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE CLOMIPRAMINE HCL:
CLOMIPRAMINE HCL: Take CLOMIPRAMINE HCL exactly as prescribed. When first taking CLOMIPRAMINE HCL, your doctor may increase your dose gradually to determine the best effective dose. CLOMIPRAMINE HCL may be taken with food to prevent stomach upset. Do not stop taking CLOMIPRAMINE HCL without your doctor's approval. Nausea, headache or fatigue can occur if the drug is suddenly stopped.

CLOMIPRAMINE HCL USES:
CLOMIPRAMINE HCL is used in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD). It may take 2 to 3 weeks before the full effects of CLOMIPRAMINE HCL are noticed.

CLOMIPRAMINE HCL PRECAUTIONS:
Before using CLOMIPRAMINE HCL tell your doctor your medical history, especially of glaucoma, prostate problems, decreased urine output, thyroid disease, breathing problems, seizure problems, alcohol use, heart disease, mental/emotional problems, liver or kidney disease and of any drug allergies. CLOMIPRAMINE HCL can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear a sunscreen and protective clothing. Limit alcohol while using CLOMIPRAMINE HCL to avoid excessive drowsiness. Elderly persons are usually more sensitive to the effects of CLOMIPRAMINE HCL. Use cautiously. CLOMIPRAMINE HCL should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. CLOMIPRAMINE HCL is excreted into breast milk. The effects on the infant are not known at this time. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

CLOMIPRAMINE HCL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about what drugs you take especially if you take medicines to treat an over-active thyroid, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), other tranquilizers, medicines that make you excited, drugs to treat high blood pressure, narcotic pain medication (e.g., codeine), SSRI antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, fluvoxamine) and of any other drus you may use, both prescription and nonprescription. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

CLOMIPRAMINE HCL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include flushing, fast or irregular heartbeat, dry mouth, drowsiness, confusion, agitation, enlarged pupils, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

CLOMIPRAMINE HCL NOTES:
Taking CLOMIPRAMINE HCL at bedtime may help minimize side effects such as day time sleepiness. Talk to your doctor about this.

MISSED CLOMIPRAMINE HCL DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

CLOMIPRAMINE HCL STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.