Mixing Alcohol And Anafranil: Side Effects, Interactions And Blackouts
Certain side effects have been seen in patients who are taking Anafranil (clomipramine) such as upset stomach, dry mouth, and increased drowsiness and tiredness. Because of these potential side effects, mixing the medication with alcohol can cause patients to be less alert than normal.
When on Anafranil and consuming alcohol, some patients have seen an increase in anxiety symptoms, especially when a patient just begins taking the medication. In addition, some patients have seen their initial OCD symptoms worsen when they first start taking the medicine or mixing it with alcohol. If any symptoms or side effects worsen or become intolerable, speak to a doctor or pharmacist to decide if the medication is right for you.
While not scientifically proven, some people have experienced increased amounts of blackouts when mixing antidepressants and alcohol. If this occurs, be sure to speak to a doctor about the right medication and dosage needed to treat OCD symptoms.
What Is Anafranil (Clomipramine)?
The medication, Anafranil, also known by the generic name, clomipramine, treats patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Anafranil helps to decrease persistent or unwanted thoughts by restoring the brain’s balance of serotonin.
Clomipramine belongs to the group of prescription medications known as tricyclic antidepressants and is used to reduce the urge to perform certain tasks repeatedly in patients who are dealing with OCD. Obsessive tasks such as hand-washing over-and-over, counting steps or items or checking something a certain number of times before moving on are all examples of OCD habits that interfere with daily life, which Anafranil helps to curb.
Mixing Alcohol and Anafranil (Clomipramine)
Taking Anafranil at the same time as consuming alcohol can increase certain side effects or even stop the medication from working as intended. If a patient begins to feel uneven heartbeats, extremely drowsy, increased confusion or agitation, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
Although rare, mixing clomipramine with alcohol can cause serious side effects such as vomiting, blurred vision, excessive sweating, muscle stiffness or seizures. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these arise.
Summing Up Side Effects, Interactions And Blackouts Of Mixing Alcohol And Anafranil (Clomipramine)
Remember that certain side effects are possible when taking Anafranil (clomipramine). Make sure to speak to a doctor before starting the medication to know how other medications or the use of alcohol interact with the prescribed medicine.
If you experience dry mouth as a side effect, try eating ice chips or hard candy, and make sure to stay hydrated. Also, be sure to increase fiber and exercise to aid side effects such as constipation.
In addition, this medication should not be shared with others. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember or skip the dose if it is too close to the next scheduled dosage. Be sure not to double the dose if one is missed, and do not cease using Anafranil before consulting with a doctor.
If you or someone you know begins struggling with side effects or has a hard time stopping the medication, seek help by contacting us.
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The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.