Important: This page is general information, not medical advice. It does not recommend or prescribe any treatment. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Quick facts
- Drug class
- Atypical Antipsychotic [EPC]
- How it is given
- oral
- Type
- human prescription drug
- RxNorm ID
- 476177
We do not publish dosing. How much of this medicine to take, how often, and for how long depends on your age, weight, kidney and liver function, other conditions and other medicines. That is a decision for the person who prescribes or dispenses it. Follow the directions on your own pack and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
What it is used to treat
Clozapine orally disintegrating tablets (Clozapine ODT) is an atypical antipsychotic indicated for: Treatment of severely ill patients with schizophrenia who fail to respond adequately to standard antipsychotic treatment. Because of the risks of severe neutropenia and of seizure associated with its use, Clozapine ODT should be used only in patients who have failed to respond adequately to standard antipsychotic treatment ( 1.1 ) Reducing the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who are judged to be at chronic risk for re-experiencing suicidal behavior ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Treatment-resistant Schizophrenia Clozapine Orally Disintegrating Tablets (Clozapine ODT) are indicated for the treatment of severely ill patients with schizophrenia who fail to respond adequately to standard antipsychotic treatment. Because of the risks of severe neutropenia and of seizure associated with their use, Clozapine ODT should be used only in patients who have failed to respond adequately to standard antipsychotic treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.4) ]. The effectiveness of Clozapine ODT in treatment-resistant schizophrenia was demonstrated in a 6-week, randomized, double-blind, active-controlled study comparing Clozapine ODT and chlorpromazine in patients who had failed other antipsychotics [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. 1.2 Reduction in the Risk of Recurrent Suicidal Behavior in Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder Clozapine ODT is indicated for reducing the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who are judged to be at chronic risk for re-experiencing suicidal behavior, based on history and recent clinical state. Suicidal behavior refers to actions by a patient that put him/herself at risk for death. The effectiveness of Clozapine ODT in reducing the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior was demonstrated over a two-year treatment period in the InterSePT™ trial [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] .
About this medicine
Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic drug, is a tricyclic dibenzodiazepine derivative, 8-chloro-11-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-5 H -dibenzo [ b,e ] [1,4] diazepine. The structural formula is: Clozapine Orally Disintegrating Tablets (referred to as Clozapine ODT) are available as peach, orally disintegrating tablets of 25 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg or 200 mg for oral administration without water. Clozapine orally disintegrating tablets may be chewed. Each orally disintegrating tablet contains clozapine, USP equivalent to 25 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg or 200 mg. The active component of clozapine orally disintegrating tablets is clozapine. The remaining components are aspartame, crospovidone, FD&C Yellow No. 6 Aluminum Lake, magnesium stearate, mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose, peppermint flavor, silicon dioxide and sodium stearyl fumarate. Clozapine ODT contains aspartame [see Warnings and Precautions (5.18) ] . Phenylalanine is a component of aspartame. Each 25 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 3.38 mg aspartame, thus, 1.90 mg phenylalanine. Each 100 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 13.52 mg aspartame, thus, 7.59 mg phenylalanine. Each 150 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 20.28 mg aspartame, thus, 11.38 mg phenylalanine. Each 200 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 27.04 mg aspartame, thus, 15.18 mg phenylalanine. structural formula
How it works
12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of clozapine is unknown. However, it has been proposed that the therapeutic efficacy of Clozapine ODT in schizophrenia is mediated through antagonism of the dopamine type 2 (D 2 ) and the serotonin type 2A (5-HT 2A ) receptors. Clozapine also acts as an antagonist at adrenergic, cholinergic, histaminergic and other dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors.
Who should not take it
Clozapine ODT is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to clozapine (e.g., photosensitivity, vasculitis, erythema multiforme, or Stevens-Johnson Syndrome) or any other component of Clozapine ODT [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . Known hypersensitivity to clozapine or any other component of Clozapine ODT ( 4 )
Warnings and cautions
Severe neutropenia: See ( 5.1 ) Gastrointestinal Hypomotility with Severe Complications: Severe gastrointestinal adverse reactions have occurred with the use of clozapine. If constipation is identified, close monitoring and prompt treatment is advised. ( 5.7 ) Eosinophilia: Assess for organ involvement (e.g., myocarditis, pancreatitis, hepatitis, colitis, nephritis). Discontinue if these occur. ( 5.8 ) QT Interval Prolongation: Can be fatal. Consider additional risk factors for prolonged QT interval (disorders and drugs). ( 5.9 ) Metabolic Changes: Atypical antipsychotic drugs have been associated with metabolic changes that may increase cardiovascular/cerebrovascular risk. These metabolic changes include ( 5.10 ): Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus: Monitor for symptoms of hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Monitor glucose regularly in patients with diabetes or at risk for diabetes. Dyslipidemia: Undesirable alterations in lipids have occurred in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. Weight Gain: Significant weight gain has occurred. Monitor weight gain. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): Immediately discontinue and monitor closely. Assess for co-morbid conditions. ( 5.11 ) Hepatotoxicity: Can be fatal. Monitor for hepatotoxicity. Discontinue treatment if hepatitis or transaminase elevations combined with other symptoms occur. ( 5.12 ) Fever: Evaluate for infection and for neutropenia, NMS. ( 5.13 ) Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Consider PE if respiratory distress, chest pain, or deep vein thrombosis occurs. ( 5.14 ) Anticholinergic Toxicity: When possible, avoid use with other anticholinergic drugs and use with caution in patients with a current diagnosis or prior history of constipation, urinary retention, clinically significant prostatic hypertrophy, or other conditions in which anticholinergic effects can lead to significant adverse reactions. ( 5.15 , 7.1 ) Interference with Cognitive and Motor Performance: Advise caution when operating machinery, including automobiles. […]
Reported side effects
The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Severe Neutropenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Orthostatic Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Syncope [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Falls [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Myocarditis, Pericarditis, Cardiomyopathy, and Mitral Valve Incompetence [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Gastrointestinal Hypomotility with Severe Complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Eosinophilia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] QT Interval Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Metabolic Changes (Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus, Dyslipidemia, and Weight Gain) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] Fever [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ] Pulmonary Embolism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14) ] Anticholinergic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] Interference with Cognitive and Motor Performance [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16) ] Tardive Dyskinesia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.17) ] Patients with Phenylketonuria [see Warnings and Precautions (5.18) ] Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.19) ] Recurrence of Psychosis and Cholinergic Rebound after Abrupt Discontinuation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.20) ] Most common adverse reactions (≥ 5%) were: CNS reactions (sedation, dizziness/vertigo, headache, and tremor); cardiovascular reactions (tachycardia, hypotension, and syncope); autonomic nervous system reactions (hypersalivation, sweating, dry mouth, and visual disturbances); gastrointestinal reactions (constipation and nausea); and fever. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Mylan at 1-877-446-3679 (1-877-4-INFO-RX) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. […]
Interactions with other medicines
Concomitant use of Strong CYP1A2 Inhibitors : Reduce Clozapine ODT dose to one-third when coadministered with strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin, enoxacin). ( 2.7 , 7.1 ) Concomitant use of Strong CYP3A4 Inducers is not recommended. ( 2.7 , 7.1 ) Discontinuation of CYP1A2 or CYP3A4 Inducers: Consider reducing Clozapine ODT dose when CYP1A2 (e.g., tobacco smoke) or CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., carbamazepine) are discontinued. ( 2.7 , 7.1 ) Anticholinergic drugs: Concomitant use may increase the risk for anticholinergic toxicity. ( 5.7 , 5.15 , 7.1 ) 7.1 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect Clozapine ODT Clozapine is a substrate for many cytochrome P450 isozymes, in particular CYP1A2, CYP3A4, and CYP2D6. Use caution when administering Clozapine ODT concomitantly with drugs that are inducers or inhibitors of these enzymes. CYP1A2 Inhibitors Concomitant use of Clozapine ODT and CYP1A2 inhibitors can increase plasma levels of clozapine, potentially resulting in adverse reactions. Reduce the Clozapine ODT dose to one-third of the original dose when Clozapine ODT is coadministered with strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin, or enoxacin). The Clozapine ODT dose should be increased to the original dose when coadministration of strong CYP1A2 inhibitors is discontinued [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Moderate or weak CYP1A2 inhibitors include oral contraceptives and caffeine. Monitor patients closely when Clozapine ODT is coadministered with these inhibitors. Consider reducing the Clozapine ODT dosage if necessary [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) ] . CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 Inhibitors Concomitant treatment with Clozapine ODT and CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., cimetidine, escitalopram, erythromycin, paroxetine, bupropion, fluoxetine, quinidine, duloxetine, terbinafine, or sertraline) can increase clozapine levels and lead to adverse reactions [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Use caution and monitor patients closely when using such inhibitors. Consider reducing the Clozapine ODT dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) ] . […]
Use in specific groups
Lactaton: Infants exposed to Clozapine ODT through breast milk should be monitored for excess sedation and neutropenia. ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to atypical antipsychotics, including Clozapine ODT, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to advise patients to register by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at1-866-961-2388 or visiting http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/. Risk Summary Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including Clozapine ODT, during the third trimester are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms following delivery ( see Clinical Considerations ). Available data from published epidemiologic studies over decades of use with clozapine during pregnancy have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes ( see Data ). There are risks to the mother associated with untreated schizophrenia and with exposure to antipsychotics, including Clozapine ODT, during pregnancy ( see Clinical Considerations ). In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed when clozapine was administered orally to pregnant rats or rabbits during the period of organogenesis, or to pregnant rats during pregnancy and lactation, at doses up to approximately 0.4 and 0.9 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 900 mg/day, for rats and rabbits respectively, based on mg/m2 body surface area ( see Data ). The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defects, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. […]
If too much is taken
10.1 Overdosage Experience The most commonly reported signs and symptoms associated with Clozapine ODT overdose are: sedation, delirium, coma, tachycardia, hypotension, respiratory depression or failure; and hypersalivation. There are reports of aspiration pneumonia, cardiac arrhythmias, and seizure. Fatal overdoses have been reported with clozapine, generally at doses above 2500 mg. There have also been reports of patients recovering from overdoses well in excess of 4 g. 10.2 Management of Overdosage There are no specific antidotes for Clozapine ODT overdose. Establish and maintain an airway; ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Monitor cardiac status and vital signs. Use general symptomatic and supportive measures. Consider the possibility of multiple-drug involvement. Contact a Certified Poison Control Center for the most up to date information on the management of overdosage (1-800-222-1222).
Before you take anything new
Tell your pharmacist or doctor about every medicine you take — including ones bought without a prescription, herbal products and supplements. Interactions are one of the most common avoidable causes of harm from medicines, and a pharmacist can check your full list in a couple of minutes.
This page is built from the openFDA record of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's approved labelling for this product, effective 13 March 2026. Label text has been shortened and reformatted for readability; safety wording has not been altered in meaning. FDA labelling describes products approved in the United States — brand names, strengths, formulations and approved uses may differ in your country. Always read the leaflet that comes with your own pack. PocketsInfo is not affiliated with, and is not endorsed by, the FDA. Retrieved 2026-07-30.