Clomipramine Side Effects

As with any medication, there are possible side effects of clomipramine. Dizziness, drowsiness, and shakiness are common side effects that have been reported with clomipramine. Most people, however, tolerate the medication well and, in many cases, the side effects are minor and may easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. If you experience more serious clomipramine side effects, such as hallucinations, seizures, or suicidal thoughts, be sure to report them immediately to your healthcare provider.

 

Clomipramine Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with clomipramine hydrochloride (Anafranil®). However, not everyone who takes clomipramine will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. When side effects do occur, in many cases they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with clomipramine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of clomipramine side effects with you.)
 

Common Clomipramine Side Effects

Clomipramine has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, common side effects of clomipramine included:
 
Withdrawal side effects have been reported in people who have stopped taking clomipramine suddenly. These side effects of clomipramine withdrawal include nausea, headaches, and a general ill feeling (see Clomipramine Withdrawal).
 
Other common side effects of clomipramine (occurring in 10 to 19 percent of people) include:
 
  • Nervousness
  • Weight gain (see Clomipramine and Weight Gain)
  • Vision changes
  • Urinary (bladder) problems
  • Muscle twitching
  • Abdominal pain (or stomach pain)
  • Muscle pain
  • Irritated or runny nose
  • Increased appetite.
     
(Clomipramine Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;