Clozapine (Systemic)

Brand Names : Clozaril, Leponex

Precautions While Using This Medicine

It is important that you have your blood tests done when they are scheduled, and that your doctor check your progress at regular visits . Clozapine can cause some very serious blood problems that you may not be able to feel or see. The pharmacy will give you this medicine only if your blood tests show that it is safe for you to take clozapine. Also, your doctor will make sure the medicine is working properly and change the dosage if needed.

If you do not take clozapine for 2 or more days, talk to your doctor about what to do . You may need to take a lower dose when you first start taking this medicine again.

If you have been using this medicine regularly, do not stop taking it without first checking with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to reduce gradually the amount you are taking before stopping completely. This is to help prevent the illness from suddenly returning.

This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that slow down the nervous system, possibly causing drowsiness). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medicine; prescription pain medicine or narcotics; barbiturates; medicine for seizures; muscle relaxants; or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your doctor before taking any of the above while you are using this medicine .

Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you develop unusual tiredness or weakness, fever, sore throat, or other symptoms of infection. These can be symptoms of a very serious blood problem.

Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you have chest pain or discomfort, a fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, or fever and chills. These can be symptoms of a very serious problem with your heart.

Clozapine may cause drowsiness, blurred vision or convulsions (seizures). Do not drive, climb, swim, operate machines or do anything else that could be dangerous while you are taking this medicine.

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur, especially when you get up from a lying or sitting position. Getting up slowly may help. If this problem continues or gets worse, check with your doctor.

In some patients, clozapine may cause increased watering of the mouth. Other patients, however, may get dryness of the mouth. For temporary relief of mouth dryness, use sugarless gum or candy, melt bits of ice in your mouth, or use a saliva substitute. However, if your mouth continues to feel dry for more than 2 weeks, check with your medical doctor or dentist. Continuing dryness of the mouth may increase the chance of dental disease, including tooth decay, gum disease, and fungus infections.