 |
 |
From: "Byron, Sara" <[log in to unmask]> To: "owner-parkinsn" <[log in to unmask]> Subject: Clozapine / Clozaril info Date: Thu, 11 Jul 1996 01:12:25 -0400 ATYPICAL TRANQUILIZERS CLOZARIL (CLOZAPINE) Clozaril appears to be unique in that it can help relieve the symptoms of confusion and hallucinations without significantly worsening the symptoms of Parkinson's in most patients. It has also been used to treat a number of movement problems associated with Parkinson's such as severe dyskinesias. SIDE EFFECTS OF CLOZARIL + Sedation (excessive sleepiness): a drop in blood pressure on standing, causing faintness; and hypersalivation with increased drooling + Seizures: generally at higher doses than those used in Parkinson's patients + Severe lowering of white blood cell count (agranulocytosis), which can compromise a person's ability to fight infection and has led to a number of deaths in patients treated with Clozaril. For this reason, weekly blood counts must be taken on all patients receiving Clozaril and no patient may receive more than a one week's supply of medication at a time.