(For veterinary information only)
WARNING
The size of the tablet/medication is NOT an indication of a proper dose. Never administer any drug without your veterinarian's input. Serious side effects or death can occur if you use drugs on your pet without your veterinarian's advice.
It is our policy not to give dosing information over the Internet.
Brand Name: Anafranil
Available in 25-, 40-, 50-, and 75 mg capsules (Anafranil and generic) and as 20-, 40- and 80 mg chewable tablets (Clomicalm© by Virbac), CaniQuell
Background:
Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) and one of the FDA-approved medications to treat separation anxiety in dogs when combined with behavior modification. It is also commonly prescribed to treat generalized anxiety, certain noise phobias, storm phobia, and compulsive behaviors in both dogs and cats. In cats, research has shown clomipramine to reduce urine spraying by 90%.
Clomipramine is the most specific for serotonin of all the tricyclic antidepressants but differs from selective serotonin inhibitors (SSRI) such as fluoxetine. Fluoxetine is very specific for serotonin, whereas clomipramine inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake in addition to its antihistaminic and anticholergic effects. Clomipramine should be taken with food.
Side Effects:
Side effects can vary but are similar to other medications. In general, side effects may include sedation, constipation, diarrhea, urinary retention, decreased appetite, irregular heartbeats (cardiac arrhythmias), and changes in blood pressure.
Interactions with Other Medications:
Clomipramine should not be given in combination with MAOIs such as selegiline. Use with caution when using along with other serotonin-enhancing medications to reduce the risk for serotonin syndrome. When administering clomipramine in addition to phenobarbital, an increase in plasma levels of clomipramine could occur.
Concerns and Cautions:
If prescribed clomipramine, it is important not to stop taking it abruptly. This medication should be weaned off of gradually to observe for the reoccurrence of behavior problems and to reduce the potential for side effects. Always start with a lower dosage and titrate up if side effects are not noted.
Use caution in patients with a history of heart disease, seizure disorders, glaucoma, urine, or stool retention. Testicular hypoplasia could occur in male breeding dogs. Avoid use in pregnant and nursing females. Cats and dogs administered clomipramine did exhibit some decreases in thyroid hormones.
It is our policy not to give dosing information over the Internet.