In this video we will cover everything you need to know about Clozapine, also known as Clozaril. This video is part of a video series on mental health problems. So for more mental health related videos check out this playlist:
   • Mental Health Problems and Solutions  

Generic name: Clozapine.
Brand names: Clozaril and Leponex.
Available as a tablet and a drink.

How to use it?
Swallow the tablet completely with half a glass of water.
When using it as a drink: measure the correct amount you need to take with a measuring spoon or measuring cup. And drink it.

Duration of treatment:
The duration of treatment depends on the indication of use and the severity of your symptoms. If your symptoms improve with the use of Clozapine you usually have to keep using it for 12-24 more months. And sometimes multiple years.

When to use it?
Clozapine is part of a group of drugs called antipsychotics. It can be used to treat several mental health conditions:
- Treatment-resistant schizophrenia.
- Treatment-resistant psychosis.
- Psychotic disorders in Parkinson's disease.
- Delirium in Parkinson's or 'Lewy body' dementia.

What is the correct dosage?
Unfortunately I can’t provide you with guidelines for the correct dosages, as these differ a lot depending on the specific indication, the side effects you experience and the severity of your complaints.
Usually your doctor starts with a low dose and quickly builds it up over a few days. Afterwards your maintenance dose will be adapted throughout your treatment based on the blood levels of Clozapine you will be having.
Therefore always use the prescribed dose and frequency your doctor gave you.

What are the side-effects?
Very common (10%): somnolence, dizziness, constipation and a fast heartbeat.
Common (1-10%): changes in your blood values, dry mouth, low blood pressure, high blood pressure, stomach and intestine complaints, weight gain, headache, tremor, stiffness, fatigue, fever and sweating.
Uncommon (0.1-1%): stuttering and falling.

Safety:
You should be careful to combine Clozapine with alcohol. As this might increase the dazing effect of Clozapine.
In addition it is usually safe to drive while using this drug, however it can cause you to become drowsy, sleepy and/or dizzy. If you experiencing any of these side effects then please do not drive.
Furthermore, smoking cigarettes decreases the effectivity of clozapine. Always discuss this with your prescribing doctor.
Lastly, Clozapine can have interactions with several drugs. Therefore always discuss this with your treating physician.

Pregnancy and Lactation:
Clozapine can be dangerous in both cases, therefore always discuss this with your doctor.

- Disclaimer: this video and the comments are meant purely informational! This is not medical advice! If you are looking for medical advice always contact your own doctor. -

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Literature:
1: Farmacotherapeutisch Kompas. (2020). Clozapine
2: Apotheek.nl (2020). Clozapine.

* The images in this video are used for educational purposes only. Most of the images and video material in this video come from https://www.canva.com/.

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