anafranil 25mg tablet - Clomipramine (25mg) medicine

Anafranil 25mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Novartis India Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for OCD and depression.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Irregular or fast heartbeat
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Severe confusion or agitation

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is anafranil 25mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder and depression. It works by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. It is available as a 25 mg oral tablet and is usually taken once daily. Common side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, and dizziness. It should not be stopped suddenly.

  • Generic Name: Clomipramine
  • Manufacturer: Novartis India Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 anafranil 25mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोमिप्रामाइन हाइड्रोक्लोराइड नामक सक्रिय तत्व से बनी एक ट्राइसाइक्लिक एंटीडिप्रेसेंट है, जिसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से ऑब्सेसिव-कंपल्सिव डिसऑर्डर (ओसीडी) और अवसाद के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह मस्तिष्क में सेरोटोनिन और नॉरएपिनेफ्रिन के स्तर को बढ़ाकर काम करती है, जिससे मूड में सुधार होता है और बार-बार आने वाले विचारों तथा दोहराव वाले व्यवहार में कमी आती है। यह 25 मिलीग्राम की गोली के रूप में उपलब्ध है और आमतौर पर दिन में एक बार ली जाती है। इस दवा को डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना अचानक बंद नहीं करना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मुँह सूखना, नींद आना, चक्कर आना, कब्ज, धुंधली दृष्टि और पसीना आना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और शरीर के सामान्य होने पर कम हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में अनियमित दिल की धड़कन, बेहोशी, दौरे, एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया और यकृत की समस्या शामिल हो सकती है। यदि आपको कोई गंभीर लक्षण महसूस हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे अचानक बंद न करें, क्योंकि इससे निकासी के लक्षण जैसे मतली, सिरदर्द और चिड़चिड़ापन हो सकता है। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। इस दवा के साथ शराब न पिएँ। अपने डॉक्टर को अन्य सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएं जो आप ले रहे हैं। नियमित जांच के लिए अपॉइंटमेंट लें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 anafranil 25mg tablet Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)","description":"This medicine is FDA-approved for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults and children aged 10 years and older.
  • It helps reduce the frequency and intensity of intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Major depressive disorder","description":"This medicine is used to treat depression, particularly when other antidepressants have not been effective.
  • It helps improve mood, sleep, and energy levels.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Panic disorder","description":"This medicine may be prescribed to reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Chronic pain syndromes","description":"This medicine can be used off-label for certain chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain, due to its effects on serotonin and norepinephrine.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Premature ejaculation","description":"This medicine may be used off-label to delay ejaculation, but it is not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cataplexy associated with narcolepsy","description":"This medicine may help reduce cataplexy attacks in some patients.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Also treats: Major depressive disorder, Panic disorder, Chronic pain syndromes

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Clomipramine
Brand NameAnafranil
ManufacturerNovartis India Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassTricyclic antidepressants
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep away from moisture and heat. Keep in the original container.
Shelf LifeNot established from the available information. Refer to the packaging for the expiry date.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at bedtime to minimize daytime drowsiness.
2
Do not stop this medicine abruptly; your doctor will taper the dose gradually.
3
Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine.
4
Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, seizures, or glaucoma.
5
Monitor for mood changes, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.
6
Keep all follow-up appointments for monitoring of heart rhythm and blood tests.
7
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Obsessive thoughts
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
Compulsive behaviors
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
Depressed mood
This medicine is used for depression.
Likely Use
Panic attacks
This medicine may be used for panic disorder.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Food does not significantly affect its absorption.
DistributionThis medicine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the brain. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingThis medicine is approximately 97% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismThis medicine is metabolized in the liver primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP2D6, CYP1A2, and CYP3A4. Its active metabolite, desmethylclomipramine, also has pharmacological activity.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine ranges from 19 to 37 hours. The half-life of its active metabolite, desmethylclomipramine, is longer, ranging from 54 to 77 hours.
ExcretionThis medicine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine and feces.
BioavailabilityThe bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 50% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionThe onset of antidepressant and anti-obsessive effects typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, but may take up to 10 weeks for full benefit in OCD.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached 2 to 6 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is approximately 24 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.

How It Works

This medicine works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which increases their availability in the synaptic cleft. This leads to enhanced neurotransmission and helps regulate mood and behavior. It also has effects on other neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine and histamine, which contribute to its side effect profile.

Mechanism Steps

1
Inhibition of serotonin reuptake: This medicine blocks the serotonin transporter, preventing the reuptake of serotonin into presynaptic neurons, thereby increasing serotonin levels in the synapse.
2
Inhibition of norepinephrine reuptake: This medicine also blocks the norepinephrine transporter, leading to increased norepinephrine levels in the synapse.
3
Downregulation of beta-adrenergic receptors: Chronic use leads to downregulation of beta-adrenergic receptors, which is thought to contribute to its antidepressant effects.
4
Anticholinergic effects: This medicine has anticholinergic properties, which can cause dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.

💡 How to Take anafranil 25mg tablet

Strength: 25 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3You may take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
4Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
5If you take it once daily, taking it at bedtime may help reduce daytime drowsiness.
6Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises you to.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual starting dose for adults is 25 mg once daily, which may be gradually increased to a maximum of 250 mg per day in divided doses, depending on the condition being treated and your response. For obsessive-compulsive disorder, doses typically range from 100 mg to 250 mg per day. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients should start at a lower dose, typically 10 mg to 25 mg daily, and increase gradually. Close monitoring is required due to increased risk of side effects.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily Dose250 mg per day in divided doses for adults, but individual maximum may vary based on indication and tolerability.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
High-tyramine foods
Avoid
May increase risk of hypertensive crisis.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of anafranil 25mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Dry mouth (Very common (>10%))
Sip water, chew sugar-free gum, or use saliva substitutes. Consult your doctor if it becomes bothersome.
Drowsiness (Very common (>10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Taking the dose at bedtime may help.
Dizziness (Common (1-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions. Consult your doctor if it persists.
Constipation (Common (1-10%))
Increase fiber and fluid intake. Consult your doctor if it persists.
Blurred vision (Common (1-10%))
Usually temporary. Consult your doctor if it persists.
Increased sweating (Common (1-10%))
Stay hydrated and use antiperspirants if needed.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, fainting, or chest pain.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a seizure.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Blood disorders (Rare (<0.1%))
Report any unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor immediately.
Liver problems (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, or autonomic instability.
Serotonin syndrome
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, fever, or muscle twitching.
Angle-closure glaucoma
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience eye pain, vision changes, or halos around lights.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
SSRIs Major
Antiarrhythmics Major
Anticholinergics Major
CYP2D6 inhibitors Moderate
CYP1A2 inhibitors Moderate
CNS depressants Moderate
Sympathomimetics Moderate
Antacids Minor
Grapefruit juice Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Other antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs)
  • Antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., quinidine, flecainide)
  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., benztropine, diphenhydramine)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, bupropion)
  • CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin)
  • CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)
  • Sympathomimetic drugs (e.g., pseudoephedrine, amphetamines)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impair your ability to think clearly. It may also worsen the side effects of this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to clomipramine or other tricyclic antidepressants","Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI","Acute recovery phase after myocardial infarction","Severe liver disease","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention","Concomitant use with cisapride"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults. Monitor closely.","May cause drowsiness and impair ability to drive or operate machinery.","May cause orthostatic hypotension. Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.","May cause anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.","May lower seizure threshold. Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures.","May cause QT prolongation. Use with caution in patients with cardiac disease.","Do not stop abruptly; taper gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of side effects."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the medicine, taking into account the importance of the medicine to the mother.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can be life-threatening. Symptoms include irregular heartbeat, severe drowsiness, confusion, seizures, and coma. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and management of cardiac arrhythmias. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headache, and irritability. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and impair your ability to think clearly. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially monoamine oxidase inhibitors, other antidepressants, and medicines for heart rhythm problems. Keep all appointments for monitoring, including blood tests and heart checks if recommended. Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and anticholinergic effects. Start at a lower dose and monitor closely. Regular monitoring of heart, liver, and kidney function is recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. The safety of this medicine during pregnancy is not fully established. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks and may consider alternative treatments.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. It may interact with anesthetic agents and affect blood pressure and heart rhythm. Your doctor may advise you to stop the medicine temporarily before surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. This medicine can cause dry mouth, which may increase the risk of dental problems. It may also interact with certain local anesthetics or sedatives used during dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a regular sleep schedule to help manage drowsiness.
🥗
Stay hydrated and chew sugar-free gum to relieve dry mouth.
😴
Eat a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation.
💧
Engage in regular light exercise, but avoid overheating.
🧘
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.
🌞
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how it affects you. Stay hydrated during exercise, as this medicine can cause sweating and affect temperature regulation.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.
Limit high-tyramine foods if advised by your doctor.
Stay well hydrated.
Eat regular meals to maintain energy levels.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is advisable to avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. You may need to adjust your work schedule if you experience significant drowsiness. Discuss any work-related concerns with your doctor.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose to prevent withdrawal symptoms. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately for advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may require regular monitoring of heart function, liver function, and blood counts. Some patients may experience weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or dental problems due to dry mouth. It is important to attend regular follow-up appointments and report any new or worsening symptoms. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT is a first-line treatment for OCD and can be used alone or in combination with medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are often preferred over tricyclic antidepressants due to a better safety profile.

Evidence: Well-established
Relaxation techniques

Techniques such as yoga and meditation can help reduce anxiety and stress.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccinations while taking this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. If crossing time zones, adjust the timing of your dose gradually to match your new schedule, but do not take a double dose. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. Always carry enough supply for your trip.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 32-year-old woman with severe OCD
She had been struggling with intrusive thoughts and compulsive hand-washing for years. After starting this medicine, she noticed a significant reduction in her symptoms within 6 weeks. She experienced dry mouth and drowsiness initially, but these improved over time. She emphasizes the importance of taking the medicine regularly and attending therapy.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and combining medication with therapy can lead to significant improvement in OCD symptoms.
👤 A 45-year-old man with depression and chronic pain
He was prescribed this medicine for depression that had not responded to other treatments. Over 8 weeks, his mood improved, and he also noticed relief from his chronic back pain. He had to adjust the dose due to drowsiness, but found taking it at night helped.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can be effective for both depression and chronic pain, but dose adjustment may be needed to manage side effects.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine may take 2 to 4 weeks to start working for depression, and up to 10 weeks for full benefit in OCD. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine if I feel better?

A: No, you should not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and may lead to a relapse. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

A: No, you should avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impair your ability to think clearly.

Q: Can this medicine cause weight gain?

A: Weight gain is a possible side effect of this medicine. If you notice significant weight gain, consult your doctor for advice on diet and exercise.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my heart?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Will it cause weight gain?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?

🔄 Substitutes for anafranil 25mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is addictive.
    Fact: This medicine is not addictive in the traditional sense, but it can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. It should be tapered gradually under medical supervision.
  • Myth: This medicine works immediately.
    Fact: This medicine takes several weeks to show its full effects. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You should not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of your condition.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Clomipramine hydrochloride

Brand Alternatives

  • Anafranil

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","class":"TCA","primary_use":"OCD, depression","common_side_effects":"Dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness"},{"medicine":"Fluoxetine","class":"SSRI","primary_use":"OCD, depression","common_side_effects":"Nausea, insomnia, headache"},{"medicine":"Sertraline","class":"SSRI","primary_use":"OCD, depression","common_side_effects":"Diarrhea, nausea, insomnia"}]

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