Clozaril - Clozapine

Clozapine (Clozaril). Clozapine was introduced over 30 years ago but has only been available in the United States since 1990. It remains the medication of choice for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Since its introduction, it has been used to treat acute mania with excellent results. Furthermore, it avoids the potential for tardive dyskinesia posed by haloperidol and the other typical antipsychotics. 

Clozapine (Clozaril). Clozapine has been available in other parts of the world for about 30 years. The FDA has only approved it since 1990. Clozapine is clearly the... 

OFFICIAL NAMES Major tranquilizers (neuroleptics/antipsychotics) Chlorpromazine (Thorazine) chlorprothixene (Taractan) clozaril (Clozapine) fluphenazine (Permitil, Prolixin) haloperidol (Haldol) loxapine (Daxolin, Loxitane) mesoridazine (Serentil) molindone (Lidone,... 

Clozaril (Clozapine), for example, can cause agranulocytosis (a potentially lethal suppression of white blood cells by the bone marrow). Parkinsonian symptoms and weight gain occur with risperidone (Risperdal) and olanzapine (Zyprexa). In addition, quetiapine (Seroquel) has been associated with an increased incidence of cataracts. 

Although we include clozapine as a newer atypical antipsychotic medication, it does have a long history and in some texts may be listed as a traditional antipsychotic. Known by the brand name Clozaril, clozapine was originally synthesized in 1957 and in 1960 was one of the first antipsychotics released on the European market (Hippius, 1989). It was believed to be more successful than the typical antipsychotics because it did not seem to have the same negative side-effect profiles. Years later, eight documented cases of death were attributed to infections secondary to clozapine-induced agranulocytosis, and the product was withdrawn from unrestricted use (Davis Casper, 1977). Based on later studies that supported the success of clozapine with strict monitoring for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, the FDA approved it in 1990 (Barnes McEv-edy, 1996). 

Figure 6.15 Three CNS drugs, examples of activity at multiple receptors. Left to right Valium (diazepam), Clozaril (clozapine), and Zyprexa (olanzapine).

Clozaril Clozapine Atypical antipsychotic Lower Cp max for generic Ereshefsky ef o/. (2001)... 

Clozaril (Clozapine). Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd. UK Summary of product characteristics, September 2005. 

Clozaril (Clozapine). Novartis Fliarmaceuticals C porati( i. US F rescribii infmnation. May 2005. 

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