Clozapine
Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication used primarily to treat treatment-resistant schizophrenia in patients who have not responded to other medications. It works by blocking dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. Clozapine is typically reserved for patients who have failed to respond to at least two other antipsychotic medications due to its significant side effect profile.
Clozapine is an antipsychotic used for treatment-resistant schizophrenia that requires regular blood monitoring due to risk of serious blood disorders.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05AH02
- RxNorm
- 2626
- Generic
- Clozapine
- Class
- atc-n05
- Brands
- Versacloz, Clozaril
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, suspension
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment-resistant schizophrenia; reduces symptoms of hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking in patients who have not responded to at least two other antipsychotic medications.
While the exact mechanism is unknown, clozapine is believed to work through antagonism of dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, helping to restore dopamine and serotonin balance in the brain.
Requires regular weekly or biweekly white blood cell monitoring due to risk of agranulocytosis (dangerously low white blood cell count). Also carries risks of seizures, weight gain, diabetes, and myocarditis. Must be dispensed through a restricted distribution program. Should not be stopped abruptly.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy