CLONIL SR 75 TABLET

🧠💊 Clomipramine 75mg Tablet: A Deep Dive into Tricyclic Antidepressant Therapy

Clomipramine 75mg is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, panic attacks, and certain anxiety disorders. It works by balancing natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine, which play a key role in mood regulation.

Clomipramine is a gold standard treatment for OCD, with extensive clinical history, and is also used off-label in chronic pain, cataplexy (narcolepsy), and premature ejaculation under professional supervision.

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🔬 Mechanism of Action

Clomipramine inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) in the brain, increasing their availability in the synaptic cleft. This results in improved mood, reduced anxiety, and better control over obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. It also has mild anticholinergic, antihistaminic, and alpha-adrenergic blocking properties, contributing to both therapeutic effects and side effects.

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📋 Therapeutic Uses

✅ Approved Indications:

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

• Panic disorder

• Chronic anxiety

⚕️ Off-Label/Additional Uses:

• Cataplexy (in narcolepsy)

• Chronic pain syndromes

• Premature ejaculation

• Phobic disorders

Clomipramine is particularly effective in reducing obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions in OCD patients when other SSRIs are inadequate.

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💊 Dosage and Administration

• Starting dose: Typically 25mg/day, increased gradually.

• Maintenance dose: 75–150mg/day, divided doses.

• For OCD: Up to 250mg/day may be used under close supervision.

• Take with meals to reduce stomach upset.

• May take 2–4 weeks to show full benefit.

⚠️ Do not abruptly stop the medication; tapering is necessary to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

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⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Use cautiously in patients with:

  • Heart conditions (risk of arrhythmias)

  • Seizure disorders

  • Glaucoma or urinary retention

  • Bipolar disorder (may induce mania)

• Not recommended for children under 10 years for depression.

Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking clomipramine.

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🤕 Side Effects

Common:

• Dry mouth, constipation

• Drowsiness or dizziness

• Weight gain

• Blurred vision

• Sexual dysfunction

Serious (seek immediate care):

• Irregular heartbeat

• Seizures

• Serotonin syndrome (especially with other serotonergic drugs)

• Suicidal thoughts (especially in young adults)

• Severe allergic reactions

Report any signs of mood worsening, agitation, or suicidal ideation to a doctor promptly.

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🔄 Drug Interactions

• Avoid combining with MAO inhibitors, SSRIs, SNRIs

• Increased risk of side effects with anticholinergic or CNS depressant medications

• May interact with blood thinners, antihypertensives, and anti-seizure drugs

Regular monitoring of ECG, mental status, and serum levels may be required in long-term use.

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📦 Storage

• Store at room temperature (15–30°C)

• Protect from moisture and direct sunlight

• Keep out of reach of children

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📝 Conclusion

Clomipramine 75mg is a time-tested and effective TCA, especially beneficial in treating OCD and major depression. Its potent serotonergic action makes it ideal for obsessive-compulsive symptoms. However, due to its broad side-effect profile and interaction potential, it must be used under strict medical guidance, with careful dosage adjustments and monitoring.