Anafranil

Anafranil: use, side effects and features of the drug

Anafranil (international name - clomipramine) is an antidepressant that belongs to the group of non-selective neuronal uptake inhibitors. The drug is produced by several companies, including Novartis and Ciba-Geigy, in various dosage forms such as tablets, dragees and injection solutions.

Anafranil is used to treat various mental and somatic diseases, including depressive syndrome, schizophrenia, obsessive states and phobias, chronic pain and somatic diseases, as well as bedwetting in children and adolescents.

The main active ingredient of the drug is clomipramine. It works by increasing the concentration of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine in the synaptic clefts between neurons, which improves mood and reduces anxiety.

Like any other drug, Anafranil has contraindications and side effects. The drug is not recommended for use if you are hypersensitive to other antidepressants from the dibenzazepine group, or if you have recently suffered a myocardial infarction. You should also avoid taking it during treatment with MAO inhibitors, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Side effects of Anafranil may include dry mouth, profuse sweating, tremor, dizziness, accommodation paresis, urinary retention, orthostatic hypotension, lethargy, and allergic skin reactions. Rarely, liver dysfunction, hyperpyrexia, convulsions, and agranulocytosis may occur.

In case of an overdose of Anafranil, conduction disturbances and arrhythmia, insomnia, confusion, and increased or development of phobia may be observed. In this case, gastric lavage is indicated, and in case of severe anticholinergic symptoms, administration of 0.5-2 mg of physostigmine IV or IM.

During treatment with Anafranil, you should avoid drinking alcohol. It is also necessary to consult a doctor before using the drug, especially if the patient has other medical conditions or is taking other medications.

In conclusion, we can say that Anafranil is an effective antidepressant, which, when used correctly, can help patients suffering from various mental and physical diseases. However, like any other drug, it has its contraindications and side effects that must be taken into account when prescribing treatment. Patients taking Anafranil should monitor their condition and regularly communicate with their doctor to avoid possible complications.