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Clozaril / Clozapine Drug Information What Is Clozaril / Clozapine?
Also called leponex and fazaclo, clozaril is an atypical antipsychotic. Clozaril is used in treatment of resistant schizophrenia and to reduce the risk of suicidal thinking in schizophrenics. Clozaril treats symptoms of schizophrenia such as hallucinations, delusions, and emotional and social withdrawal. Studies suggest that clozaril helps to foster social rehabilitation in schizophrenics. Scientists have also studied clozaril in the treatment of severe obsessive compulsive disorder and chronic insomnia (as something of a last measure in insomnia treatment). How to Use Clozaril / Clozapine
Usually prescribed as an oral medication, clozaril is a yellow crystalline solid. Generally, clozaril is prescribed at first in smaller doses, taken at bedtime. The dosage will be increased in increments of 25mg, with average doses ranging from 150 to 450 mg daily. This medication should only be taken as indicated by your physician. What Are the Possible Side Effects of Using Clozaril / Clozapine?
Clozaril, like many drugs, can cause some very common side effects. If you experience any of the following, consult your physician at your next appointment:
Some patients may experience increased salivation, causing drooling, while taking clozaril. Your physician can advise you on possible treatment of this side effect.
Some users of clozaril have experienced muscle pain and stiffness. Stretching exercises can usually alleviate some of this sensation.
Patients may notice a general shaky feeling, leading to tremors, while taking this medication. Advise your physician if you are experiencing this side effect.
Frequent check-ups and wellness exams will help catch hyperglycemia if patients experience this side effect while using clozaril. Advise your physician as soon as possible if you think you are suffering from hyperglycemia.
A very common side effect to using clozaril is dizziness. Patients experiencing this side effect should inform their doctor, who can advise possible treatment methods.
Another common side effect, observed in many patients taking clozaril, is drowsiness. If these feelings of drowsiness persist, creating fatigue and restricting activity, inform your doctor as soon as possible.
Some patients taking clozaril may experience inexplicable weight gain. If you suffer from this, advise your physician. There are many options for treatment available to combat this side effect.
Users of clozaril may experience headaches while taking this medication. Your doctor can advise you on medication you can take to help with this side effect.
Some patients have suffered from bouts of constipation while taking clozaril. There are many products available for over the counter purchase to alleviate this symptom, but consult with your physician before taking any other medications. Warnings and Precautions before Taking Clozaril / Clozapine In rare cases, use of clozaril can cause a condition called agranulocytosis. This side effect reduces the white blood cell count. Patients taking clozaril should have their blood cell count checked on a weekly basis for the first six months of treatment. After the first six months, blood cell count should continue to be monitored every two weeks. Patients who experience sudden sore throat and/or fever should consult with their physician immediately. Clozaril can also cause adverse effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Patients who suffer from a history of seizures should inform their doctor prior to taking clozaril, as this drug can cause seizures in some patients. Clozaril has not been tested in pregnant women and nursing mothers. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should consult their doctor before using clozaril. What Should You Do If You Miss a Dose of Clozaril / Clozapine?
If you missed your scheduled dose of clozaril, take your dosage as soon as you remember the missed dose. Clozaril should not be double-dosed, however, so in cases when it is almost time for your next dose of clozaril go ahead and skip the missed dose. More than one dose of this medication should never be taken at any one time, and two doses of clozaril should not be taken too close together. How To Store Clozaril / Clozapine Clozaril should be stored below 86º F, and kept away from moisture. Do not expose this drug to extreme temperatures or flame. Clozaril should be kept out of reach of children. |