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.
Clozaril is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
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 to block or lessen the effects of several chemicals in the brain. These chemicals (such as dopamine and serotonin) may be elevated in people with schizophrenia.
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.
The dose of Clozaril your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
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 include but are not limited to:
(Click Clozaril Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
You can also read about additional side effects in the following eMedTV articles:
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.
What If I Take an Overdose?
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 take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
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 this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
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.
Clozaril tablets are available in the following strengths:
- Clozaril 25 mg
- Clozaril 100 mg.
Currently, both brand-name and generic versions of Clozaril are licensed for sale
(see Generic Clozaril).
