Medicine information
Uses & overview
Clozapine is a prescription antipsychotic medication used mainly to treat treatment-resistant schizophrenia, particularly when other antipsychotic treatments have not provided adequate symptom control. In certain patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, it may also be prescribed to reduce the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior. Treatment must be managed by a qualified psychiatrist. Clozapine affects several neurotransmitter systems in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin pathways. It may help reduce hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and other symptoms associated with schizophrenia. The response varies between individuals, and improvement may take time.
How to use
Follow your prescribed dose: Take the exact amount recommended by your doctor. Never increase or decrease the dose independently. Start treatment gradually: Clozapine requires careful dose adjustment, particularly at the beginning. Gradual increases help reduce the risk of dizziness, fainting, and low blood pressure. Maintain a consistent schedule: Take the medicine at the prescribed times each day. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the timing and frequency of doses. Follow administration instructions: Swallow tablets with water as directed. If prescribed an oral liquid, follow the product-specific instructions provided by your pharmacist. Attend blood tests: Clozapine can cause severe neutropenia, a dangerous reduction in certain white blood cells. Regular absolute neutrophil count monitoring is essential according to applicable prescribing requirements. Manage missed doses safely: Contact your prescriber if you miss doses for more than 48 hours. You may need to restart at a lower dose because resuming your previous dose can cause serious complications. Monitor bowel movements: Clozapine can cause severe constipation and potentially life-threatening bowel complications. Report persistent constipation, abdominal pain, swelling, or vomiting promptly.
Storage
Store in cool and dry place
