Tricyclic antidepressant
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Clomipramine hydrochloride is an antidepressant medicine that works by increasing the levels of a natural chemical called serotonin in the brain, which helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, and calm obsessive or repetitive thoughts.
Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine at presynaptic nerve terminals, increasing their synaptic concentrations and enhancing neurotransmission in mood-regulating and anxiety-related neural pathways. Additionally blocks muscarinic, histamine, and alpha-adrenergic receptors, contributing to its therapeutic effects in depression, OCD, and anxiety disorders.
Depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD, when you have repeated unwanted thoughts or habits you cannot stop), panic attacks, long-lasting anxiety, bed-wetting in children
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Only buy this medicine from a licensed pharmacy. Brands like Aphrodil Tablets or Clorek-25 Tablet are available in Nigeria, so ask your pharmacist for genuine products. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's guidance as it can cause withdrawal symptoms like headache, nausea, and irritability. This drug can make you drowsy, so avoid driving or operating machines until you know how it affects you.
Do not take clomipramine with MAO inhibitor drugs (like selegiline or phenelzine) as this combination can be life-threatening. Avoid drinking alcohol while on this medicine as it increases drowsiness and dizziness. Be careful when taking it with tramadol or other antidepressants as this can increase the risk of seizures.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Clomipramine with your other drugs?
Clomipramine is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing a baby.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the medicine in its original container and far away from children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.