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Clozapine

Clozapine

Where is Clozapine used?

Clozapine is a psychiatric medication used in people with schizophrenia. This is an anti-psychotic type that gives treatment to certain mood/mental disorders. Schizoaffective disorder is a chronic mental health condition with symptoms like delusions or hallucinations. It also has symptoms of a mood disorder such as depression and mania.

This belongs to the group of medicines called antipsychotics. It helps to correct a chemical imbalance in the brain that causes mental illness. This is available in pale yellow tablets for oral administration. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this treatment.

How does Clozapine work?

Clozapine works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances or neurotransmitters in the brain. This medication helps prevent suicide in people who are likely to try to harm themselves. This also decreases hallucinations. It helps you to think more clearly and positively about yourself. It will help you feel less nervous and take part in everyday life.

How is Clozapine taken?

Follow all the instructions given to you by your doctor carefully. They may be different from the information that is given here. If you do not understand some instructions on the label, ask your doctor for assistance.

The usual starting dose is half of 25 mg. it is taken once or twice on the first day. The dose is usually increased to one 25 mg once or twice on the second day. Usually, the total amount of this medicine needed each day will be between 200 mg and 450 mg. The recommended dosage will usually depend on your medical condition and response to the medication.

Take this medication exactly as it is given by your doctor. Do not take more than the prescribed dosage. It may worsen or develop some complications while you are on your treatment. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If you often missed a dose, call your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Clozapine?

  • Constipation
  • Sleep problems
  • Weight gain
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Drooling (especially at night)
  • Increased sweating
  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness
  • Spinning sensation
  • Shaking or tremor

Call for medical help if you have signs of allergic reactions;

  • Skin pain
  • Hives
  • Difficult breathing
  • Swelling of your face, lips, throat, or tongue
  • A rash that spreads and causes peeling or blistering

What are the precautions in taking Clozapine?

  • The components of tobacco smoke may cause the medicine to be excreted from the body quicker than usual. If you start or stop smoking while you are taking Clozapine, the amount of it in your blood may be affected. Consequently, you need to tell your doctor if you plan to give up smoking or start smoking while you are taking this medicine.
  • This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not operate machinery or drive. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication, as it may make any dizziness or drowsiness worse.
  • Drinking caffeine can cause the amount of the medicine in your blood to increase. If you regularly drink caffeine and then suddenly stop for a few days, this may cause your blood level of Clozapine to fall below normal. You must try not to make big changes to your normal caffeine intake while you are taking this medication.
  • This medicine can cause some people to put on weight. Talk to your doctor about this before you start treatment so that you can discuss strategies, such as exercise and diet, for reducing any weight gain.