Clozapine
Clozapine is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia such as hallucinations, delusions and disorganized thinking. This drug changes the chemical makeup of the brain to help prevent these problems. It also is used to prevent psychotic dementia in elderly patients.
Warnings/Side Effects
This medication causes a variety of side effects in patients, including:
- Serious blood infections
- Seizures
- Swelling of the heart
- Dizziness, lightheadness and fainting upon standing up
In addition, older adults are at greater risk of dying of a heart attack or of pneumonia if they take this medication. It is not recommended for use in elderly patients