Information about Clozapine

Generic Name : Clozapine
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Clozapine are provided here.

Pronunciation : kloe' za peen

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Clozapine, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y49.5 Therapeutic Classification : Psychotherapeutics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Clozapine

India :

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International :

Clozaril , FazaClo

Why is Clozapine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antipsychotic, prescribed for schizophrenia. It changes the activity of certain natural substances in the brain.

When should Clozapine not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with myeloproliferative disorders (abnormal growth of blood cells), uncontrolled epilepsy, intestinal obstruction, drug-induced agranulocytosis, co-adminisered with drugs that are causing agranulocytosis and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Clozapine?

The initial dose is 12.5 mg two times/day, and the dose is increased by 25–50 mg each day, until the dose reaches 300–450 mg per day.
The usual dosage range is 300–600 mg per day. Maximum: 900mg/day.

How should Clozapine be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Clozapine?

•♦ Caution should be exercised in patients with history of intestinal obstruction, increased eye pressure, irregular heartbeat, QT prolongation, heart arrest, enlarged prostate, high or low blood pressure, heart, kidney, lung or liver disease, any allergy, who are taking this medications, during pregnancy and breast feeding.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• It may cause drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.

• Patient may develop with increased risk of agranulocytosis, high blood pressure, diabetes, monitor blood counts, blood pressure and sugar level regularly while taking this medication.

• It may cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) with the following symptoms: fever, stiff muscles, confusion, abnormal thinking, fast or irregular heartbeat, and sweating. If it so consult with your doctor.

What are the side effects of Clozapine?

Central Nervous System- Drowsiness, seizures, dizziness and fainting.
Heart - Fast heart rate, low blood pressure, heart arrest, and ECG changes.
Gastrointestinal - Nausea and vomiting.
Blood - Decrease in blood cell counts and fever.
Central Nervous System - Headache, tremor, disturbed sleep, nightmares, restlessness, muscle weakness, agitation, rigidity, movement disorder, confusion, fatigue, sleeplessness, weakness, lethargy, incoordination, slurred speech, depression, jerks and anxiety.
Heart - Fast heart rate, low/high blood pressure, chest pain an ECG changes.
Gastrointestinal - Constipation, nausea, abdominal discomfort, heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea, liver test abnormality and loss of appetite.
Genitourinary - Urinary abnormalities, incontinence, abnormal ejaculation, urinary urgency/frequency and urinary retention.
Skin - Rash.
Musculoskeletal - Muscle weakness/pain, muscle spasm and muscle pain.
Respiratory - Throat discomfort, difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath and nasal congestion.
Blood - Decrease in white blood cells and eosinophilia.
Miscellaneous - Weight gain, tongue numbness, salivation, sweating, dry mouth and visual disturbances.