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Clomipramine for obsessive-compulsive disorder: prescribing guidelines.
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Ky.
Southern Medical Journal
|October 1, 1991
Summary
Clomipramine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, is now approved for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This effective treatment for a previously resistant condition offers significant benefits despite potential side effects and risks requiring careful medical supervision.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Clomipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant, has a 20-year history in Europe and Canada for depression management.
- It selectively blocks serotonin reuptake, impacting neurotransmission.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has historically been challenging to treat pharmacologically.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of clomipramine in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
- To highlight clomipramine as the first approved pharmacotherapy for OCD.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies demonstrating clomipramine's effectiveness in OCD treatment.
- Analysis of clomipramine's pharmacological action (selective serotonin reuptake inhibition).
Main Results:
- Clomipramine has demonstrated significant efficacy in managing OCD.
- Common side effects include dry mouth, visual disturbances, constipation, sexual dysfunction, somnolence, tremors, and dizziness.
- Potential risks include cardiotoxicity and lowered seizure threshold, necessitating medical supervision.
Conclusions:
- Clomipramine represents a breakthrough pharmacotherapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Careful patient monitoring and adherence to guidelines are crucial to mitigate risks associated with clomipramine treatment.