Clozaril (clozapine) is an atypical antipsychotic medication that works by affecting the activity of the brain’s neurotransmitters. This medication is only available by prescription. Due to the adverse side effects that may be experienced when taking this drug, you should carefully follow all the directions laid out by your doctor.
Clozaril is used to treat symptoms associated with severe schizophrenia, including hallucinations, breaks with reality, suicidal behavior, and extreme emotions, thoughts, or feelings. While Clozaril will help control behaviors that accompany the condition, it is not a “cure” for schizophrenia.
This drug is often prescribed to adults who need to augment other antipsychotic medications, or when they have not responded to other schizophrenia treatments. In most cases, Clozaril is suggested only after two or more alternative antipsychotic drugs have been tried.
It may be helpful to consider pairing antipsychotic medication with some type of psychotherapy. Many available studies indicate that psychotropic medication treatment augmented with psychotherapy helps improve the quality of life to a greater degree for those in treatment than medication alone. Psychotherapy is a healthy way to address many emotions and behaviors associated with conditions Clozaril is used to treat.
Pay close attention to the dosage instructions provided by your doctor and/or pharmacist. Your clinician’s directions will likely include the following recommendations:
People who are being treated with Clozaril may experience various side effects. Individuals who encounter serious side effects should seek emergency medical attention immediately. Serious side effects may include:
Less serious side effects of this medication may include:
If you are allergic to clozapine, you should not take Clozaril. Common allergic reactions include the sudden appearance of hives and the swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat. Be sure to mention to your doctor if you have had any serious reactions to similar medications.
Clozaril is not recommended for use by older adults with dementia or dementia-related issues as it may increase the risk of death. If you have or have ever had heart disease, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, stroke, liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, glaucoma or seizures, you should talk to your doctor before you take this drug. Tell your doctor if you have ever had urinary issues or problems with your prostate.
Let your doctor know if you have phenylketonuria. Orally disintegrating Clozaril tablets contain aspartame, which forms phenylalanine.
Clozaril may interact with other medications or supplements, including antihistamines, antidepressants, antibiotics, antifungal drugs, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, sleeping pills, HIV medications, high blood pressure medications, and more. If you are taking other prescription drugs or supplements, you should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication.
A single tablet of Clozaril may be extremely toxic to toddlers. Confusion, involuntary muscle movement, nerve damage, coma, and respiratory arrest may occur if toddlers ingest just 50-200 mg of clozapine.