What is clozapine?
Clozapine is an antipsychotic medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in the brain. Clozapine is used to treat severe schizophrenia. It is also used to reduce the risk of suicidal behavior in people with schizophrenia or similar disorders. Clozapine is usually given after other medications have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms. Clozapine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information about clozapine
Clozapine is not for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Clozapine may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions. You should not take clozapine if you are allergic to it, or if you have untreated or uncontrolled epilepsy, a bone marrow disorder, paralytic ileus or intestinal blockage, a history of infection caused by taking clozapine, or if you are also using drugs that weaken your immune system (such as cancer medicine or steroids). Clozapine can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to develop a serious or life-threatening infection. This risk is higher in women and older adults, and in people who are malnourished or have serious medical problems. While you are taking clozapine, your blood will need to be tested every week for the first 6 months of treatment, and then every 2 to 4 weeks. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor. Serious and sometimes fatal infections may occur during treatment with clozapine. Call your doctor right away if you have signs of infection such as: fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, mouth or throat ulcers, cough, sore throat, rapid heart rate, or rapid and shallow breathing. There are many other medicines that can interact with clozapine. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to any healthcare provider who treats you.