User:Mr. Ibrahem/Clozapine

Clozapine, sold under the brand name Clozaril among others, is an atypical antipsychotic medication. It is mainly used for schizophrenia that does not improve following the use of other antipsychotic medications. In those with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder it may decrease the rate of suicidal behavior. It is more effective than typical antipsychotics, particularly in those who are treatment-resistant. It is used by mouth, or by injection into a muscle.

Clozapine is associated with a relatively high risk of low white cells (agranulocytosis), a condition of suppressed immunity which may result in death. To decrease this risk, it is recommended that the white blood cell count be regularly monitored. Other serious risks include seizures, inflammation of the heart, high blood sugar levels, constipation, and in older people with psychosis as a result of dementia, an increased risk of death. Common side effects include drowsiness, increased saliva production, low blood pressure, blurred vision, and dizziness. The potentially permanent movement disorder tardive dyskinesia occurs in about 5% of people. Its mechanism of action is not entirely clear.

Clozapine was first made in 1956, and sold commercially in 1972. It was the first atypical antipsychotic. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. It is available as a generic medication. The wholesale cost in the developing world is between US$0.05 and US$2.10 per day as of 2014.