Clomipramine

General Information

Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that has been used since 1961. It is the 3-chloro analogue of imipramine and share many properties with that drug. It is available as the hydrochloride salt in 10 - 100 mg normal-release capsules and tablets and a 75 mg extended release tablet for oral administration and a 12.5 mg/mL solution for i.v or i.m injection. Adult daily doses range from 30 - 300 mg in one or more portions.

The adverse effects of clomipramine toxicity include nausea, dry mouth, blurred vision, mydriasis, drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, headache, asthenia and postural hypotension. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome has been reported. Serotonin syndrome was described in a patient with therapeutic plasma levels who was receiving 200 mg daily. Clomipramine in overdose casues central nervous system depression, agitation, convulsions, hypotension, hyperpyrexia and cardiac arrhythmias.