What it is used for

Depression
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and phobias
Cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness) linked to narcolepsy

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Premature ejaculation
Panic disorder

How it works

Clomipramine strongly increases the amount of serotonin, and to a lesser extent noradrenaline, in the brain. This can reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsions and improve mood.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Clomipramine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

dry mouth
constipation
feeling sleepy or dizzy
sweating
blurred vision
weight gain
sexual problems
shaking

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

a fast or irregular heartbeat
fits (seizures)
thoughts of harming yourself
difficulty peeing, or eye pain with changes in vision

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

It can be very dangerous in overdose.
Avoid alcohol.
It interacts with many medicines.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.