Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Anafranil?
3. Do You Need a Prescription for Anafranil?
4. How Does Anafranil Work?
5. Common Side Effects of Anafranil
6. What Should You Not Take with Anafranil?
7. Conclusion

Introduction

Anafranil is a prescription medication used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and panic disorder. It is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. Anafranil is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause some side effects. In this article, we will discuss what Anafranil is, how it works, and what you should know before taking it. We will also discuss the potential side effects and what you should not take with Anafranil.

What is Anafranil?

Anafranil is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and panic disorder. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. These chemicals are thought to be involved in regulating mood and behavior. Anafranil is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause some side effects.

Do You Need a Prescription for Anafranil?

Yes, Anafranil is a prescription medication and it is not available over-the-counter. You will need to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and medical history before they can prescribe Anafranil for you.

How Does Anafranil Work?

Anafranil works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. These chemicals are thought to be involved in regulating mood and behavior. Anafranil works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, which allows them to remain in the brain longer. This can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression, OCD, and panic disorder.

Common Side Effects of Anafranil

The most common side effects of Anafranil include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, and weight gain. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, headache, insomnia, and increased sweating. If you experience any of these side effects, talk to your doctor.

What Should You Not Take with Anafranil?

You should not take Anafranil with other medications that increase serotonin levels, such as SSRIs or SNRIs. You should also not take Anafranil with MAO inhibitors, such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, or tranylcypromine. Taking Anafranil with these medications can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening.

Conclusion

Anafranil is a prescription medication used to treat depression, OCD, and panic disorder. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Anafranil is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause some side effects. You should not take Anafranil with other medications that increase serotonin levels, such as SSRIs or SNRIs, or with MAO inhibitors. If you have any questions about Anafranil, talk to your doctor.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Anafranil. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/anafranil-oral-route/description/drg-20069863

2. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Anafranil. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682414.html