Clofranil: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you hear Clofranil, a brand name for the antidepressant clomipramine, often prescribed for obsessive-compulsive disorder and severe depression. Also known as clomipramine, it’s one of the oldest antidepressants still in use today—backed by decades of real-world data but often overshadowed by newer drugs. Unlike SSRIs like sertraline or fluoxetine, Clofranil affects multiple brain chemicals at once, which can make it more powerful but also more likely to cause side effects.

Many people turn to Clofranil when other antidepressants don’t work, especially for obsessive-compulsive disorder, a condition where intrusive thoughts lead to repetitive behaviors. Also known as OCD, it’s one of the few disorders where Clofranil has proven more effective than newer medications in clinical studies. But it’s not a first-line choice for everyone. The drug can cause dry mouth, dizziness, weight gain, and even heart rhythm changes—especially in older adults or those taking other meds. That’s why doctors often monitor patients closely, especially when starting or adjusting the dose.

People who’ve tried SSRIs and still struggle with anxiety or compulsions might find Clofranil makes a difference. But switching to it isn’t simple—you can’t just stop your current med and start this one. Tapering off safely, managing interactions with other drugs like benzodiazepines, used for anxiety and sleep but risky when combined with tricyclics. Also known as benzos, they can increase sedation and breathing risks when mixed with Clofranil. is critical. Many patients also combine it with therapy, not just pills, to get the best results.

There’s a reason Clofranil still shows up in discussions about treatment-resistant depression and OCD: it works for some people when nothing else does. But it’s not a magic bullet. The side effects can be tough, and the dosing needs care. That’s why so many of the posts below dive into comparisons—like how Clofranil stacks up against Daxid (sertraline), or why some patients end up switching from older tricyclics to newer options. You’ll also find advice on managing drug interactions, dealing with withdrawal, and what to ask your doctor before starting or stopping this medication. Whether you’re considering Clofranil, already taking it, or just trying to understand why it’s still around, the information here is grounded in real patient experiences and clinical evidence—not marketing.