Content
Clozapine is a drug indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease and schizoaffective disorder.
This medicine can be found in pharmacies, in generic or under the trade name Leponex, Okotico and Xynaz, requiring the presentation of a prescription.
What is it for
Clozapine is a drug indicated for the treatment of people with:
- Schizophrenia, who have used other antipsychotic drugs and have not had good results with this treatment or have not tolerated other antipsychotic drugs due to side effects;
- Schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder that may try to commit suicide
- Thinking, emotional and behavioral disorders in people with Parkinson's disease, when other treatments have not been effective.
See how to identify schizophrenia symptoms and learn more about treatment.
How to take
The dosage will depend on the disease being treated. Generally, the starting dose is 12.5 mg once or twice on the first day, which is equivalent to half a 25 mg tablet, which is increased gradually over the days, depending on the pathology presented, as well as the individual's reaction to treatment.
Who should not use
This medicine is contraindicated for the following situations:
- Allergy to clozapine or any other excipient;
- Low white blood cells, unless associated with cancer treatment
- History of bone marrow disease;
- Liver, kidney or heart problems;
- History of uncontrolled seizures;
- History of alcohol or drug abuse;
- History of severe constipation, bowel obstruction or other condition that has affected the large intestine.
In addition, it should also not be used by pregnant women and nursing mothers without doctor's guidance.
Possible side effects
Some of the most common side effects that may occur during treatment with clozapine are rapid heartbeat, signs of infection such as fever, severe chills, sore throat or mouth ulcers, reduced white blood cell count, seizures, high level a specific type of white blood cells, increased white blood cell count, loss of consciousness, fainting, fever, muscle cramps, changes in blood pressure, disorientation and confusion.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team