The sufficient clomipramine dose will be established by the prescribing doctor. Numerous factors will be taken into account, the most important being the condition being treated. Tolerance of the medication, age and size of the patient and response to treatment will also influence the clomipramine dose.
Clomipramine belongs to the class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). They are used to treat a number of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. TCAs work by acting on the chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Clomipramine is used especially in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The availability of clomipramine in most countries is by prescription only and response and tolerance need to be closely monitored by a medical professional. It is known by different trade names in different countries, by manufacturer and is available in various oral and injectable forms. The clomipramine dose prescribed by the doctor should never be exceeded.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a psychiatric condition. It is an anxiety disorder which causes the sufferer to have repetitive thoughts or actions which are unwanted. Common obsessive-compulsive behavior may include repetitive hand-washing or checking that the stove is off. If severe, this disorder can interfere significantly with normal functioning and, therefore, requires treatment.
Psychiatric disorders are usually treated in a holistic manner, that is not only will drug treatment be given, where necessary, but often psychological help is recommended. This may include behavioral therapy, counseling and support groups. Often these clinical conditions may be chronic disorders and require lifelong treatment, either psychological, medicinal or both.
When a doctor prescribes the drug, the clomipramine dose will be started low and titrated up slowly. This is so the doctor can monitor response and tolerance. Clomipramine may have adverse side effects and these should be discussed with the doctor. Side effects that have been reported include suicidal thoughts or those of self-harm, drowsiness, dry mouth and constipation. Many of these may improve as tolerance develops but any negative side effects should be discussed with the prescribing doctor.
Once the most effective clomipramine dose has been established by the doctor, it may be prescribed for some months. The prescribing doctor will monitor the patient closely and the lowest effective clomipramine dose will always be given. This should minimize the possibility of adverse side effects. It is important to remember that clomipramine may take two to four weeks before a full response is seen.