Why is Clozaril prescribed?

Clozaril is given to help people with severe schizophrenia who have failed to respond to standard treatments. It is also used to help reduce the risk of suicidal behavior in people with schizophrenia. Clozaril is not a cure, but it can help some people return to more normal lives.

Most important fact about Clozaril (Clozapine)

Even though it does not produce some of the disturbing side effects of other antipsychotic medications, Clozaril (Clozapine) may cause agranulocytosis, a potentially lethal disorder of the white blood cells. Because of the risk of agranulocytosis, anyone who takes Clozaril is required to have a blood test once a week for the first 6 months. The drug is carefully controlled so that those taking it must get their weekly blood test before receiving the following week's supply of medication. If your blood counts have been acceptable for the 6-month period, you will need to have your blood tested only every other week thereafter. Anyone whose blood test results are abnormal will be taken off Clozaril (Clozapine) either temporarily or permanently, depending on the results of an additional 4 weeks of testing.

How should you take Clozaril (Clozapine)?

Take Clozaril (Clozapine) exactly as directed by your doctor. Because of the significant risk of serious side effects associated with this drug, your doctor will periodically reassess the need for continued Clozaril therapy. Clozaril (Clozapine) is distributed only through the Clozaril Patient Management System, monitoring, which ensures regular white blood cell testing, and pharmacy services prior to delivery of your next supply.

Clozaril (Clozapine) may be taken with or without food.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

If you stop taking Clozaril (Clozapine) for more than 2 days, do not start taking it again without consulting your physician.

--Storage instructions...

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Clozaril (Clozapine)

If Clozaril (Clozapine) is taken with certain other drugs, decreased, the effects of either could be increased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Clozaril with the following:

Alcohol
Antidepressants such as quinidine, and Tambocor
Nicotine
Rifampin (Rifadin, Paxil, others)
Fluvoxamine
Heart rhythm stabilizers

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Clozaril (Clozapine).

The most feared side effect is agranulocytosis, a dangerous drop in the number of a certain kind of white blood cell. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, lethargy, and weakness. If not caught in time, agranulocytosis can be fatal. That is why all people who take Clozaril (Clozapine) must have a blood test every week. About 1 percent develop agranulocytosis and must stop taking the drug.

Seizures are another potential side effect, occurring in some 5 percent of people who take Clozaril (Clozapine). The higher the dosage, the greater the risk of seizures.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal discomfort, vomiting, vision problems, vertigo, tremors, sweating, sedation, salivation, rigidity, restlessness, rapid heartbeat and other heart conditions, nightmares, nausea, low blood pressure, loss or slowness of muscle movement, inability to sit down, high blood pressure, heartburn, headache, fever, fainting, dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, disturbed sleep, constipation, confusion, blood disorders, agitation, weight gain