Clomipramine Dosage: Simple Guide for Starting, Adjusting, and Stopping
If you’ve been prescribed clomipramine, you probably have questions about how much to take and how to change the dose. This antidepressant is often used for OCD, panic, and depression, and the right amount can vary a lot from person to person. Below you’ll find a straightforward walk‑through of typical starting doses, how doctors usually increase the dose, and how to come off the medication safely.
Starting Dose and Early Titration
Most doctors begin adults on 25 mg once a day. The low dose helps you feel the drug’s effect without overwhelming side effects like drowsiness or dry mouth. After a week or two, if you’re tolerating it well, the dose is usually bumped up to 50 mg daily.
From there, the dose can increase by 25 mg every 1‑2 weeks until you hit the therapeutic range. For OCD, the sweet spot often lands between 100 mg and 250 mg per day, split into two doses (morning and evening). For depression or anxiety, many patients feel good around 100 mg‑150 mg per day.
It’s important to remember that the exact number isn’t set in stone. Your doctor will watch how you respond, checking for both improvement in symptoms and any side effects. If you notice severe nausea, sweating, or heart‑beat changes, let the prescriber know right away – they might need to slow the climb or try a different schedule.
Adjusting the Dose and When to Taper
Once you’re in the therapeutic window, most clinicians keep the dose steady for at least 6‑8 weeks before judging effectiveness. If you’re not seeing enough relief, the doctor may push the dose higher, but rarely above 300 mg per day because the risk of side effects rises sharply.
When it’s time to stop clomipramine – whether you’ve felt better for months or you’re switching meds – a slow taper is key. Dropping the dose too fast can trigger withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, flu‑like feelings, or a sudden return of anxiety. A common taper plan cuts the dose by 25 mg every 1‑2 weeks, but the exact speed depends on how long you’ve been on the drug and the total dose you were taking.
Older adults may start at an even lower dose (10‑15 mg) and move more cautiously because their bodies process the medication slower. People with liver problems also need a gentler approach, often staying under 150 mg daily.
Throughout the whole process, keep a simple diary. Note the dose you took, the time of day, and any new side effects or changes in mood. This record helps your doctor fine‑tune the plan without guesswork.
Bottom line: clomipramine works best when you start low, move up slowly, stay at the dose that eases your symptoms, and come off gradually when you’re ready. Talk openly with your prescriber, follow the taper schedule, and you’ll give yourself the best chance for a smooth, effective treatment experience.
