How it works
Clozaril alters the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that reduces suicidal thoughts in patients.
Guidelines for usage
Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or as mentioned in the instruction booklet/product label.
Always use only as prescribed. Never exceed the dosage.
Clozaril may be used with or without food.
Doctors recommend that you swallow the whole tablet/capsules with a glass of water unless it is specified that it can be broken or chewed.
NOTE: Use only if prescribed to you and intended for your use. Do not share with others.
Missed Dose
It is common for people to forget their dosage times and miss doses.
Do not panic if you have missed a dose.
Instead, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double up or take more than what the doctor has prescribed.
How & where do I store Clozaril?
The medicine label contains detailed instructions regarding safe storage of the medication. Most medicines are best stored at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Some medications may require to be refrigerated. Please check the product label.
Keep it away from the reach of children. Ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
Ask your pharmacist about safely disposing off medication that is past expiry date.
Overdose Related Information
If you accidentally consume more medication than what was prescribed, then contact an emergency healthcare center immediately.
Safety Information
Safety Information/ Warning Precautions
Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before you start using any new medication.
Ensure that you mention the following:
Any prior serious ailment, lifestyle disease or surgery
All the prescription drugs, OTC health supplements, herbal supplements that you are using currently
Your alcohol intake and whether you smoke or not
Any history of a known allergic reaction to prescription drugs or food
You have a history of blood clots, blood problems, high blood cholesterol levels, heart problems, or lung or breathing problems
You have a history of an enlarged prostate; prolonged, painful erections; liver or kidney problems; seizures (eg, epilepsy); glaucoma; stomach or bowel problems; or dementia
You have poor health, diabetes, or a family member with diabetes, or you are very overweight, if you have decreased activity of enzymes that metabolize certain medicines
This will allow your healthcare provider to prescribe the apt dosage of the medication for you.
To be avoided
You must avoid using Clozaril if it you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if
if you have untreated or uncontrolled epilepsy, a bone marrow disorder, paralytic ileus or intestinal blockage, a history of infection caused by taking Clozaril
if you are also using drugs that weaken your immune system (such as cancer medicine or steroids).
Using Alcohol
Clozaril is known to cause drowsiness or dizziness. Your vision may be blurred and your judgement affected if you consume alcohol with this medication. So, avoid using alcohol while using Clozaril.
These effects may also get aggravated due to hot weather or fever or severe exercise. So, be cautious when you stand up after a long time from a sitting or lying position. If you feel giddy then lie down immediately and seek medical help.
Additional Information
Clozaril can trigger suicidal thoughts or actions especially in young adults, children and teenagers. The chances of this occuring are higher in people suffering from bipolar disorder. So patients taking Clozaril must be monitored closely. Even the slight change in their mood or behavior like depressed mood; anxious, restless, or irritable behavior; panic attacks must reported to the doctor.
It is not clear whether Clozaril is safe for use by children below 18 years of age. So, if the patient is under this age, then speak to your doctor regarding the possible risks.
Important Information for Pregnant Women
Clozaril is categorized under FDA category B.
Discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider before using the medication.
Certain medications may be found in breast milk so speak to your child’s doctor to rule out any possibilities of risk.
