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Clozapine

Clozapine (Clozaril), released during the mid-1990s, was the first of the atypical antipsychotic drugs. Clozapine was the first drug approved by the FDA (December 19, 2002) for reducing the risk of suicidal behaviour[?].

Side Effects Although clozapine is generally believed to not cause tardive dyskinesia[?], it does cause agranulocytosis in ~1% of users. In addition, common side effects include: constipation, drooling, muscle-stiffness, sedation, tremors, and weight-gain.

Agranulocytosis Agranulocytosis can result in a dangerous loss of white blood-cells. Those who use clozapine are advised to have a blood cell count[?] every week, for the first 6 months of usage. After this they should continue to conduct said count every 2 weeks. If the number of white blood-cells drops notably, one should consult with a hematologist. If you are using clozapine and have a sore throat, or fever, then you should inform a doctor.



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