Clozaril

Drug Uses

Clozaril is an atypical antipsychotic that is used to manage schizophrenia in patients. It is generally used only in patients who do not respond to other forms of treatment. It is also used to decrease the risk of suicidal behavior in certain patients.

How it is taken

Clozaril can be taken by mouth with (to prevent an upset stomach) or without food. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Clozaril is an atypical antipsychotic that affects certain chemicals in the brain which changes the behavior in schizophrenic patients.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Clorazil, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

However, if you have missed the dose for two days continually, then do not start taking the medicine again without contacting your doctor again.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
 

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, have a history of blood clots, blood problems, high blood cholesterol levels, heart problems, or lung or breathing problems, have a history of an enlarged prostate, prolonged, painful erections, liver or kidney problems, seizures (eg, epilepsy) glaucoma, stomach or bowel problems or dementia,  have poor health, diabetes, or a family member with diabetes, or you are very overweight, have decreased activity of enzymes that metabolize certain medicines.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or have bone marrow problems, other blood cell problems, or a history of blood problems caused by Clozaril, have uncontrolled seizures (eg, epilepsy) or loss of bowel muscle movement (paralytic ileus), have severe drowsiness, taking other medicines that may cause blood problems.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately.

Certain drugs can interact with and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

It is unknown whether is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
 

Some of the common side effects of are constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, heartburn, increased sweating or saliva production, lightheadedness when you stand up, nausea, strange dreams, trouble sleeping, weight gain. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), agitation, calf pain or tenderness, chest pain, confusion, dark urine, decreased coordination, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, chills, or sore throat, increased hunger, thirst, or urination, infection, involuntary movements of the tongue, face, mouth, or jaw (e.g., tongue sticking out, puffing of cheeks, mouth puckering, chewing movements), loss of appetite, numbness of an arm or leg, rapid breathing, restlessness, seizures, severe headache, dizziness, or vomiting, severe or persistent nausea or constipation, severe stomach pain, shortness of breath, stiff muscles, sudden, unusual weight gain, swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet, tremor, trouble swallowing, uncontrolled muscle movements, unusual mental or mood changes, unusual tiredness or weakness, vision changes, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes. You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.