Clozapine

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication used primarily in the treatment of severe schizophrenia. It is classified as an antipsychotic due to its effectiveness in managing the symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking. The medication is particularly useful for patients whose symptoms have not been adequately managed with other antipsychotic treatments.
Clozapine is unique among antipsychotic medications because of its efficacy in reducing the risk of suicidal behavior in patients with schizophrenia. This is a critical factor for patients who may be at increased risk of self-harm. The drug is also known to have a lower likelihood of causing extrapyramidal symptoms, such as muscle stiffness and involuntary movements, which are common side effects of many other antipsychotic medications.
Clozapine is taken orally, typically in tablet form. The dosage and frequency of administration are determined by the patient’s individual needs and response to treatment, as well as any side effects or interactions with other medications. It is important to monitor blood count regularly while taking clozapine, as it can sometimes cause a rare but serious blood disorder called agranulocytosis.