Clozapine

About Clozapine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as atypical antipsychotics.

Clozapine is used to treat schizophrenia in patients who have either failed treatment with, or experienced side effects from, other similar drugs. Schizophrenia is an illness which interferes with a person's ability to think clearly, manage emotions, make decisions and distinguish between reality and fantasy.

Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that controls mood and behaviour. Schizophrenia is due to overactivity of dopamine. Clozapine works by preventing this overactivity.

Clozapine is available in tablet form in 25mg and 100mg strengths.

It is also sometimes known as: Clozaril, Denzapine and Zaponex. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking Clozapine

Before taking clozapine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from any heart problems, or from epilepsy
• if you suffer from liver, kidney or prostate problems
• if you suffer from glaucoma or diabetes
• if you suffer from, or have ever suffered from, bowel problems including constipation
• if you have ever suffered from bone marrow problems (such as leukaemia)
• if you are intolerant to certain sugars
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to take Clozapine

• Take clozapine exactly as directed by your doctor
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet before beginning treatment.
• Try to take clozapine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. If you do forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember then continue taking it at the usual times. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose and continue as normal. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate.
• Do not stop taking clozapine without speaking to your doctor first.
• Before purchasing any 'over the counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside clozapine.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of clozapine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• Clozapine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. It is important that you have regular blood tests while you are being treated with clozapine. Important, you will not be able to obtain further supplies until the result of your blood test is confirmed.
• You should carry your treatment booklet with you at all times, ideally in your wallet or purse.
• Clozapine can cause drowsiness, dizziness and blurred vision. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly.
• Try to avoid alcohol as it will increase feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Clozapine may cause light-headedness and dizziness when getting up from a lying or sitting position, particularly when you begin treatment- getting up slowly should help.

Can Clozapine cause problems?

Along with their needed effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome:

very common:- dizziness, drowsiness, over-production of saliva, a fast or fluttering heartbeat

common:- weight gain, stiffness or uncontrollable movements of the body, blurred vision, dry mouth, feeling or being sick, headache, difficulty passing water or a need to pass water more often, feeling too hot or too cold

rare:- agitation, confusion, problems with swallowing

very rare:- skin rashes.

IMPORTANT: If you experience any of the following symptoms contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once:

Fever (high temperature), sore throat, swelling in the mouth; jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), itching, very dark urine; severe constipation, sweating, stupor (feeling dazed), muscle spasms.

If you experience any other worrying or troublesome symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist or doctor.

How to store Clozapine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely, out of the reach of children, or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 06/03/2006