Common Use

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat severe schizophrenia in patients who do not respond to standard antipsychotics. It helps reduce hallucinations, delusional thinking, and emotional withdrawal. The drug is also used to reduce the risk of suicide in individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Clozapine affects dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, helping to restore chemical balance.

Dosage and Direction

Clozapine is taken orally, usually once or twice daily, with or without food. Treatment typically starts with a low dose, which is gradually increased to reduce the risk of side effects. Dosage must be tailored individually and adjusted only by a healthcare provider. Continuous blood monitoring is required due to the risk of neutropenia.

Precautions

Patients must undergo regular blood tests to check for a dangerous drop in white blood cells. Caution is advised in individuals with cardiovascular disease, seizure history, or liver impairment. Alcohol and CNS depressants should be avoided, as they may enhance sedative effects. Do not stop taking clozapine suddenly without medical supervision.

Contraindications

Clozapine is contraindicated in patients with a history of clozapine-induced agranulocytosis or severe neutropenia. It should not be used in patients with uncontrolled epilepsy, paralytic ileus, or known hypersensitivity to the drug. Use is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless clearly necessary. Clozapine must not be combined with agents that suppress bone marrow function.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, and excessive salivation. Some patients may gain weight or experience rapid heartbeat. Serious side effects may include seizures, myocarditis, or agranulocytosis. Signs of infection or chest pain require immediate medical attention.

Drug Interaction

Clozapine interacts with medications that affect liver enzymes, such as fluvoxamine or carbamazepine, potentially altering its levels. Combining clozapine with other CNS depressants or drugs that lower seizure threshold increases health risks. Tobacco smoking may decrease the effectiveness of clozapine, requiring dose adjustments. Always disclose all current medications and supplements to your doctor.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose. If more than 48 hours have passed without taking clozapine, consult your doctor before restarting, as a lower dose may be needed. Missing doses can reduce treatment effectiveness and increase side effect risk.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include confusion, severe drowsiness, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and respiratory depression. Clozapine overdose is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Treatment includes supportive care and monitoring of vital signs. There is no specific antidote.

Storage

Store clozapine at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the medication in its original container and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiration date. Dispose of unused or expired tablets properly according to local guidelines.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.