clozapine

​Potential side effects

All medicines may cause side effects. However, many people do not experience them.

Most of the side effects listed here will improve with time. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if they persist, become bothersome or worsen.

Serious side effects

If you experience signs of allergy such as rashes, swelling of lips/face/throat and difficulty breathing, stop this medicine immediately and seek medical attention.

If you have symptoms such as changes in weight, passing of large amounts of urine and feelings of thirst and hunger all the time while taking this medicine, consult your doctor.

In rare cases, Clozapine may cause a condition known as agranulocytosis (low levels of white blood cells in the blood). You will need to have regular blood tests while taking this medicine. If you experience symptoms such as persistent fever, mouth ulcers and/or a sore throat, seek medical attention immediately.

In rare cases this drug may also affect the heart. Inform your doctor if you develop new or worsening palpitations, chest discomfort or pressure and/or unexplained fatigue and breathlessness.

Seizures (fits) may occur rarely while taking this medicine.

Clozapine may cause unusual movements involving the face or tongue, muscle stiffness, shakiness and unsteadiness on your feet. Please notify your doctor if this happens after taking this medicine.

A condition known as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome may occur rarely. Symptoms include but are not limited to fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental state/ consciousness and/or irregular blood pressure, heart rhythm and palpitations. If you develop any of these symptoms or other unexplained symptoms while taking this medicine, or require further information, consult your doctor.

Take note that the side effects listed here are not exhaustive. Do seek medical attention if you have other symptoms that you think may be related to this medicine.

​What do I need to tell my doctor before I take this medicine?

• Drug allergies.
• Pre-existing medical conditions such as bone marrow disease, heart disease, myocarditis (inflammatory heart disease), diabetes, Parkinson's disease, seizures, stroke, blocked intestines, liver or kidney diseases, blood disorders, and prostate problems.
• Whether you are taking any other medicines, supplements or traditional medicines. Some of them may affect how this medicine works.
• For women: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding or have plans to become pregnant. If you are pregnant and/or breastfeeding, your doctor would have discussed the potential benefits and side-effects of continuing this medicine with you but should you have further questions or concerns, do consult your doctor.

​This medicine may interact with a number of other medicines. Inform your doctor if you are taking or intend to start taking other medicines or supplements.

​What are the things I need to know or look out for while taking this medicine?

• Avoid driving or any other activities that requires concentration until you see how this drug affects you.
• Be careful in hot weather or while being active. Drink lots of fluids to stop fluid loss.
• You may become more sensitive to sunlight. Ensure that you have adequate sun protection and avoid excessive sun exposure.
• Smoking may affect this medicine. Inform your doctor if you are smoking.
• Inform your other healthcare professionals that you are taking this medicine as well.
• Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before you take any other medicines or natural products.
• Do not share your medicines with others.
• Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about your medicines.