Clozaril is a medication with the active ingredient called clozapine. It is also known by other names like Clozapine and FazaClo. Clozaril is used to help manage symptoms of schizophrenia in patients who haven’t responded well to other treatments.
The price bracket for Clozaril is from £0.22 to £0.63 per pills. Pricing nuances are influenced by pack dimensions and active ingredient consistency (60 or 360 mg).
Clozaril is the brand name for the generic medication clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic.
Clozaril is approved for the treatment of severe schizophrenia and for reducing the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior in people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.
Clozaril is available in tablet forms, typically in strengths of 25 mg and 100 mg.
Clozaril primarily works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, specifically D2 receptors, and affecting other neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and acetylcholine.
After oral administration, Clozaril is absorbed with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 2.5 hours after intake. It has a half-life of about 12 hours, allowing it to be dosed once or twice daily. Metabolism occurs in the liver.
Initial doses of Clozaril are typically 12.5 mg taken once or twice daily, gradually titrated based on the response and tolerability of the patient.
Maintenance doses typically range between 300 mg and 450 mg per day. Doses can be adjusted in increments of 25–50 mg per day, up to a maximum dose of 900 mg per day.
Clozaril should be taken with or without food. It is important to follow the dosing schedule closely to maximize therapeutic effects and minimize side effects.
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it’s close to the time for the next dose. Do not double doses to make up for a missed one.
Regular blood tests are necessary with Clozaril therapy to monitor for agranulocytosis. Weekly blood tests are required for the first six months, followed by bi-weekly tests for the next six months, and then monthly thereafter.
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, increased salivation, weight gain, and constipation. Less common but serious side effects may include seizures and myocarditis.
Clozaril can interact with several other medications including antidepressants, antihypertensives, and drugs that inhibit or induce CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 enzymes, altering its metabolism and effects.
Clozaril is contraindicated in patients with a history of clozapine-induced agranulocytosis or severe granulocytopenia, and those with uncontrolled epilepsy or active liver disease.
Dosage adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients, those with renal impairment, and individuals with hepatic insufficiency. Caution is advised in these populations.
Information on the use of Clozaril during pregnancy is limited. It is unknown if Clozaril is excreted in human breast milk; therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended.
Gradual tapering is recommended to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Stopping Clozaril suddenly can result in cholinergic rebound and other adverse effects.
Store Clozaril tablets at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, delirium, coma, tachycardia, hypotension, and respiratory depression. Immediate medical attention is required in case of overdose.
Patients should be informed about the importance of adhering to the prescribed dosage and monitoring schedule. They should be advised to report any unusual side effects or symptoms promptly.