What to do without clomipramine: I've taken... - OCD Support

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What to do without clomipramine

Thom77 profile image
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I've taken clomipramine for 27 years and while it's never been a cure, it has helped enormously. Now I learn that none of the pharmacists in my area can find a supplier. I'm really anxious about this. How is it possible that a drug which benefits so many people can just become unavailable? Has anyone successfully moved on to anything else?

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Sallyskins profile image
Sallyskins

It's a big problem for a lot of people. It's still a drug that many rely on if they can't take SSRIs like sertraline. I took clomipramine for many years and apart from drowsiness it suited me well and kept the OCD at bay.

I moved onto sertraline some years ago and apart from being a bit congested with a bit of a runny nose, which is a fairly rare but documented side effect, it has been all right. And I don't feel so dopey as I did on clomipramine. It might be worth considering sertraline but I think it's important that as many people as possible write letters to the appropriate bodies. Drug manufacturers shouldn't be allowed simply to withdraw something that is still useful.

Thom77 profile image
Thom77 in reply to Sallyskins

Yes, I agree. This will have such an impact on many people's lives. Any thoughts on who to write to? Clomipramine made me drowsy too, especially when I first started taking it, but it was worth putting up with for the benefits. I tried an SSRI once (can't remember which) and the side-effects were worse, which is why I'm so apprehensive now. I'm wondering whether I might be able to cope without taking anything at all.

Sallyskins profile image
Sallyskins in reply to Thom77

It's certainly the case that SSRIs don't suit everyone, and there have been numerous posts here from people who don't get on with them at all. It might be worth checking your medical records as to which one you tried, and perhaps trying another, but don't feel you have to. It does take about four weeks for SSRIs to start working, and most side effects do wear off, but still some people struggle with them.

I am going to make a list of suitable people to write to about clomipramine, not sure who to put on at the moment! But I shall share my thoughts on this forum and ask other people to add their own.

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