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Clozapine

Generic of Clozaril, Versacloz

What is Clozapine used for?

See also Warning section. This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders). Clozapine may also help prevent suicide in people who are likely to try to harm themselves. Clozapine belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.

CHEMICAL NAME

Clozapine (KLOE-za-peen)

DRUG TYPE

Mental/Neuro Disorders

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Clozapine Frequently Asked Questions

While clozapine can provide great benefits, it can rarely cause serious, possibly fatal side effects. For this reason, clozapine is used when other treatments have not worked or you cannot take them.

To receive this medication in the United States, you must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the Clozapine REMS Program. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.

This medication can cause a serious decrease of a certain type of white blood cells (neutropenia). To make sure you have enough white blood cells, your doctor will order lab tests before starting and while your are taking clozapine. Neutropenia may lower your ability to fight infections. Get medical help right away if you have any signs of severe neutropenia or infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, swollen lymph nodes, unusual tiredness, weakness).

Clozapine can also cause seizures, especially in higher doses. Let your doctor or pharmacist know if you have ever had seizures. While taking this medication, avoid driving or other activities during which a sudden loss of consciousness could be dangerous (such as operating heavy machinery, swimming).

This medication may rarely cause an inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) or heart failure. Get medical help right away if you develop chest pain, fast/irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, or unusual/sudden weight gain.

Clozapine can cause low blood pressure or a slow heartbeat, which can make you dizzy or cause you to faint when you stand up. The risk is higher when you first start or increase your dose of medication. Dizziness and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falling. Get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as stroke, heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when this medication is used by older adults with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for dementia-related behavior problems, with the doctor.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

Clozapine Dosage and Form Information

Supplied As
Strength
Tablet
200 Mg
100 Mg
25 Mg
50 Mg