Active Ingredient
clozapine
Primary Uses
- Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia: It is primarily used for severely ill patients with schizophrenia who have not responded adequately to other standard antipsychotic treatments.
- Reduction of Suicidal Behavior: It is also approved to lower the chronic risk of recurrent suicidal behavior in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
Important Warnings & Precautions
- Severe Neutropenia (Low White Blood Cells): This is a potentially fatal side effect, increasing the risk of serious infections. Regular blood tests to monitor your Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) are mandatory while taking this medication.
- Heart Problems: Clozapine can cause serious heart issues, including myocarditis (heart muscle inflammation) and cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart), which can be fatal. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or a fast heartbeat.
- Seizures: The risk of seizures is dose-related. A low starting dose and gradual increases help minimize this risk.
- Orthostatic Hypotension: It can cause dizziness or fainting when getting up suddenly, especially during the initial dosing period.
- Gastrointestinal Complications: Clozapine can cause severe constipation or bowel obstruction due to decreased intestinal movement, which can lead to serious complications.



