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I Have OCD And Have Recently Changed Medication From Anafranil

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Posted on Sun, 1 Nov 2020
Question: I have OCD and have recently changed medication from anafranil 150 mg to sertraline 75 mg. I lost weight which is good, but I am also having issues with my sleep. My doctor says we may have to increase medication. My obsessions seem to be a bit more pronounced, but this could also because of changes in my life (new country, new job). What can you tell me about sertraline compared to anafranil? I read online that it is just as efficient but with less side effects.
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary (21 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for using Healthcaremagic.

I read your query and understand your concerns.

What you read online is correct as SSRI group of medications are as effective as anafranil with less side effects. However few of the cases fail to respond either group of medications or develop side effects leading to change to another group of medications.

Although I have no idea about your age, gender and body structure but I like to inform you that Anafranil is last choice for elderly, those with medical conditions, those with blood pressure issues, those with glaucoma and those with multiple medications due to side effects. On the other side sertraline can be used for entire range of population except adolescents for treatment of OCD.

In regard to dose I feel you will need around 100-150 mg of sertraline as your previous response with anafranil was at 150 mg per day. In rare case your doctor may decide to choose higher dose provided there is inadequate response with proposed dose of sertraline.

I hope this helps you.
Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions.
Thanks and regards.
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2000

Answered : 3347 Questions

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I Have OCD And Have Recently Changed Medication From Anafranil

Brief Answer: Consultation Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for using Healthcaremagic. I read your query and understand your concerns. What you read online is correct as SSRI group of medications are as effective as anafranil with less side effects. However few of the cases fail to respond either group of medications or develop side effects leading to change to another group of medications. Although I have no idea about your age, gender and body structure but I like to inform you that Anafranil is last choice for elderly, those with medical conditions, those with blood pressure issues, those with glaucoma and those with multiple medications due to side effects. On the other side sertraline can be used for entire range of population except adolescents for treatment of OCD. In regard to dose I feel you will need around 100-150 mg of sertraline as your previous response with anafranil was at 150 mg per day. In rare case your doctor may decide to choose higher dose provided there is inadequate response with proposed dose of sertraline. I hope this helps you. Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions. Thanks and regards.