Clozapine (By Mouth)

Clozapine (KLOE-za-peen)

Treats schizophrenia and symptoms of mental disorders.

Brand Name(s):

Clozaril
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to clozapine or if you have a history of seizures, blood problems, or bone marrow disease.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often. Take clozapine exactly as your doctor ordered.
• May be taken with or without food.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without first asking your doctor.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Avoid drinking alcohol.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking Coumadin®, digoxin (Lanoxin®), Tagamet®, medicine for high blood pressure or any drugs that could make you sleepy, such as sleeping pills, narcotic pain pills, some cold or allergy medicines, sedatives, or muscle relaxers.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking clozapine if you have glaucoma, enlarged prostate gland, trouble urinating, low blood pressure, heart, lung, kidney, or liver disease.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• It is very important that you have blood tests done exactly as ordered. Unless you take your scheduled blood test, you may not be given your next week's supply of clozapine.
• Clozapine can cause drowsiness and seizures. Avoid activities that can cause injury, such as driving a car, operating machinery, swimming, or climbing.
• If for any reason you stop taking clozapine for more than 2 days, do not start back on the same dose. Ask your doctor what dose you should take.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Fever or sore throat
• Fainting, tiredness, or weakness
• Seizures
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Uncontrolled body movements

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Excess saliva production or drooling
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Shakiness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.