Clozaril

Clozaril is an atypical antipsychotic that is approved to treat schizophrenia when other medications have failed. While it is not a cure, the medication is generally successful in managing symptoms and decreasing the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior. Clozaril comes in tablet form and is believed to block or lessen the effects of certain chemicals in the brain.

 

What Is Clozaril?

Clozaril® (clozapine) is a prescription medication that is used to treat schizophrenia in people who have failed to respond to other schizophrenia medications. The drug is also approved to decrease the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior in people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.
 

Who Makes Clozaril?

Clozaril is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
 
(Click Clozaril Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

How Does Clozaril Work?

Clozaril belongs to a group of medications called atypical (or second-generation) antipsychotic medications. It is not entirely known how the drug works in the treatment of schizophrenia. However, it is known that Clozaril blocks or lessens the effects of several chemicals in the brain. These chemicals (such as dopamine and serotonin) may be elevated in people with schizophrenia.
 
Clozaril is not a cure for schizophrenia, however. It only helps to control symptoms (see Symptoms of Schizophrenia).
 

When and How to Take Clozaril

The following are some general considerations for when and how to take Clozaril:
 
 
  • The medication comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth one to three times daily.
     
  • You can take Clozaril with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
     
  • Clozaril should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
     
  • For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Clozaril will not work if you stop taking it.
 

Dosing Information for Clozaril

The dose of Clozaril that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may currently be taking.
     
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Clozaril Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Clozaril

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Clozaril. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of Clozaril include but are not limited to:
 
(Click Clozaril Side Effects to learn about specific side effects, including some of the more serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
You can also read about additional Clozaril side effects in the following eMedTV article:
 
 

Drug Interactions With Clozaril

Clozaril can potentially interact with a number of other medicines (see Clozaril Drug Interactions).
 

Clozaril: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Clozaril if you have:
 
Also let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
You should also make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Clozaril Warnings and Precautions to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose of Clozaril?

People who take too much Clozaril may have overdose symptoms that could include:
 
  • Drowsiness
  • Delirium
  • Coma
  • A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Increased salivation
  • Pneumonia
  • An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
  • Loss of life.
     
If you happen to overdose on Clozaril, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Clozapine Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Clozaril Be Stored?

Clozaril should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The tablets should be stored in an airtight container.
 
Keep Clozaril and all other medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Clozaril?

If you do not take your Clozaril as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
 

Strengths of Clozaril

Clozaril tablets are available in the following strengths:
 
  • Clozaril 25 mg
  • Clozaril 100 mg.
     
Generic Clozaril is available in the above strengths, as well as clozapine 50 mg tablets.
 

Alternatives to Clozaril

There are several alternatives to Clozaril for the treatment of schizophrenia. Other atypical antipsychotic medications for the disorder include:
 
Older, "typical" antipsychotics are also approved to treat schizophrenia. Haloperidol (Haldol®) and thioridazine (Mellaril®) are examples of typical antipsychotics.
 
(Click Clozapine Alternatives for more information, including non-medication alternatives to Clozaril.)
 

Generic Clozaril

Currently, both brand-name and generic Clozaril are licensed for sale (see Generic Clozaril).
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;