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Fazaclo（氯氮平口腔崩解片）

2014-11-16 15:14:52 作者：新特药房来源：互联网浏览次数：292 文字大小：【大】【中】【小】

简介： 部份中文氯氮平处方资料（仅供参考）药理作用此乃最早上市的一种二苯氧氮杂类抗精神病药。本品几乎无锥体外系反应。主要阻断边缘系统的多巴胺受体，而对纹状体多巴胺受体影响较小。除有较强的抗精神 ...

关键字：氯氮平口腔崩解片 CLOZAPINE商标名Fazaclo非典型抗精神病药物用于精神分裂症

部份中文氯氮平处方资料（仅供参考）
药理作用
此乃最早上市的一种二苯氧氮杂类抗精神病药。本品几乎无锥体外系反应。主要阻断边缘系统的多巴胺受体，而对纹状体多巴胺受体影响较小。除有较强的抗精神病作用外，本品尚具有镇静、抗胆碱、抗肾上腺素及抗组胺的作用，对控制精神病的兴奋躁动、幻觉、妄想等急性症状效果较好，对慢性退缩、被动的患者也有—定疗效。
药动学
口服吸收迅速，2.5h可达血药峰值。广泛分布到各组织，可透过血-脑脊液屏障。生物利用度仅50%，蛋白结合率高达95%，稳态时t1/2约12h。作用持续时间为4～12h。在体内几乎完全被代谢，代谢物的活性很低或无活性，主要由尿排出，30%随粪便排出。其代谢主要通过P450CYP1A2介导。
适应证
1.治疗难治性急、慢性精神分裂症，其中以紧张型及妄想型疗效较显著。
2.治疗躁狂症。
3.治疗以兴奋躁动为主要症状的其他精神病。
禁忌证
1.中枢神经处于明显抑制状态的患者禁用。
2.曾有骨髓抑制或血细胞异常疾病史者禁用。
3.禁用于昏迷、酒精中毒性谵妄、药物中毒、中毒性精神病、严重肝肾疾病患者。
4.闭角型青光眼和前列腺增生患者禁用。

注意事项
1.心血管疾病患者慎用。
2.有癫痫史的患者慎用。
3.有痉挛性疾病或病史者慎用。
4.药物对儿童的影响：本药对12岁以下儿童的安全性和有效性尚不确定。
5.药物对老人的影响：老年患者可能对氯氮平的抗胆碱作用特别敏感，易发生尿潴留、便秘等。
6.药物对哺乳的影响：本药可经乳汁分泌，服药期间建议停止哺乳。
7.用药前后及用药时应当检查或监测：治疗开始前与治疗后的每周均应进行白细胞分类与计数检查。如白细胞总数低于3500/μl时不应开始或继续进行治疗，已开始治疗者应停药观察，每周至少测白细胞2次。白细胞计数低于3000/μl时应终止治疗，然后根据白细胞与粒细胞的变化来决定是否恢复治疗。
8.服用本药后不要开车或操纵有潜在危险性的机器。
不良反应
1.以流涎较为多见。偶见抽搐、皮疹、白细胞减少，由于嗜中性白细胞减少有可能发展成严重的粒细胞减少症等。锥体外系反应罕见。已有胸腔及心包积液和胰腺炎的极道。
2.常见的不良反应有嗜睡、乏力、头痛、头昏、精神萎靡、多汗、恶心、呕吐、便秘、腹胀、腹痛、体重增加。
3.较少见的不良反应有不安与易激惹、精神错乱、视力模糊、血压升高与严重连续的头痛。这些反应都与剂量有关。用量过大，还可引起癫痫发作。
4.罕见的不良反应有粒细胞减少症或缺乏症，伴随畏寒、高热、咽部疼痛与溃疡。此外，尚有白细胞缺乏症和血小板或嗜酸粒细胞减少症的报道。
5.对心血管影响有心动过速、低血压或直立性低血压晕厥。
6.体温升高：以治疗的前3周多见，有自行调节倾向，可并发白细胞升高或降低，如同时产生肌强直和自主神经并发症时，须排除抗精神病药恶性综合征，因已有此综合征的报道。
用法用量
1.开始口服每天50～100mg，2～3次分服，以后逐渐增加，最高可达每天600～800mg，维持量每天50～100mg。
2.急用时可肌内注射50～100mg，每天2次。
药物相应作用
1.其他中枢神经抑制药与本品合用时，可严重加重对中枢神经的抑制作用。
2.抗胆碱药与本品合用时，可增强抗胆碱作用。
3.地高辛、肝素、苯妥英钠、华法林与本品合用时，可加重骨髓抑制作用。
4.碳酸锂与本品合用时，可增加发生惊厥、抗精神病药恶性综合征、精神错乱与肌张力障碍的危险。
5.与苯二氮卓类合用可致昏迷。
6.与酒精合用可引起过度镇静。
7.咖啡因可抑制本药的代谢，使本药血药浓度升高，毒性增加。故使用本药期间应谨慎摄入含咖啡因的食物，如巴西可可、冬青茶等。
8.本药与葡萄柚汁之间的相互作用还不明确。
FAZACLO(clozapine) tablet, orally disintegrating

PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

Before prescribing FazaClo® (clozapine, USP), the physician should be thoroughly familiar with the details of this prescribing information.

WARNING

1. AGRANULOCYTOSIS

BECAUSE OF A SIGNIFICANT RISK OF AGRANULOCYTOSIS, A POTENTIALLY LIFE-THREATENING ADVERSE EVENT, CLOZAPINE SHOULD BE RESERVED FOR USE IN (1) THE TREATMENT OF SEVERELY ILL PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA WHO FAIL TO SHOW AN ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE TO ADEQUATE COURSES OF STANDARD ANTIPSYCHOTIC DRUG TREATMENT, OR (2) FOR REDUCING THE RISK OF RECURRENT SUICIDAL BEHAVIOR IN PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA OR SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER WHO ARE JUDGED TO BE AT RISK OF REEXPERIENCING SUICIDAL BEHAVIOR.

PATIENTS BEING TREATED WITH CLOZAPINE MUST HAVE A BASELINE WHITE BLOOD CELL (WBC) COUNT AND ABSOLUTE NEUTROPHIL COUNT (ANC) BEFORE INITIATION OF TREATMENT AS WELL AS REGULAR WBC COUNTS AND ANCs DURING TREATMENT AND FOR AT LEAST 4 WEEKS AFTER DISCONTINUATION OF TREATMENT. (SEE WARNINGS.)

CLOZAPINE IS AVAILABLE ONLY THROUGH A DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM THAT ENSURES MONITORING OF WBC COUNTS AND ANCs ACCORDING TO THE SCHEDULE DESCRIBED BELOW PRIOR TO DELIVERY OF THE NEXT SUPPLY OF MEDICATION. (SEE WARNINGS.)

2. SEIZURES

SEIZURES HAVE BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF CLOZAPINE. DOSE APPEARS TO BE AN IMPORTANT PREDICTOR OF SEIZURE, WITH A GREATER LIKELIHOOD AT HIGHER CLOZAPINE DOSES. CAUTION SHOULD BE USED WHEN ADMINISTERING CLOZAPINE TO PATIENTS HAVING A HISTORY OF SEIZURES OR OTHER PREDISPOSING FACTORS. PATIENTS SHOULD BE ADVISED NOT TO ENGAGE IN ANY ACTIVITY WHERE SUDDEN LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS COULD CAUSE SERIOUS RISK TO THEMSELVES OR OTHERS. (SEE WARNINGS.)

3. MYOCARDITIS

ANALYSES OF POSTMARKETING SAFETY DATABASES SUGGEST THAT CLOZAPINE IS ASSOCIATED WITH AN INCREASED RISK OF FATAL MYOCARDITIS, ESPECIALLY DURING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE FIRST MONTH OF THERAPY. IN PATIENTS IN WHOM MYOCARDITIS IS SUSPECTED, CLOZAPINE TREATMENT SHOULD BE PROMPTLY DISCONTINUED. (SEE WARNINGS.)

4. OTHER ADVERSE CARDIOVASCULAR AND RESPIRATORY EFFECTS

ORTHOSTATIC HYPOTENSION, WITH OR WITHOUT SYNCOPE, CAN OCCUR WITH CLOZAPINE TREATMENT. RARELY, COLLAPSE CAN BE PROFOUND AND BE ACCOMPANIED BY RESPIRATORY AND/OR CARDIAC ARREST. ORTHOSTATIC HYPOTENSION IS MORE LIKELY TO OCCUR DURING INITIAL TITRATION IN ASSOCIATION WITH RAPID DOSE ESCALATION. IN PATIENTS WHO HAVE HAD EVEN A BRIEF INTERVAL OFF CLOZAPINE (ie, 2OR MORE DAYS SINCE THE LAST DOSE) TREATMENT SHOULD BE STARTED WITH 12.5MG ONCE OR TWICE DAILY. (SEE WARNINGS AND DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.)

SINCE COLLAPSE, RESPIRATORY ARREST, AND CARDIAC ARREST DURING INITIAL TREATMENT HAS OCCURRED IN PATIENTS WHO WERE BEING ADMINISTERED BENZODIAZEPINES OR OTHER PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS, CAUTION IS ADVISED WHEN CLOZAPINE IS INITIATED IN PATIENTS TAKING A BENZODIAZEPINE OR ANY OTHER PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG. (SEE WARNINGS.)

5. INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS

ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS TREATED WITH ANTIPSYCHOTIC DRUGS ARE AT AN INCREASED RISK OF DEATH. ANALYSES OF SEVENTEEN PLACEBO-CONTROLLED TRIALS (MODAL DURATION OF 10 WEEKS), LARGELY IN PATIENTS TAKING ATYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTIC DRUGS, REVEALED A RISK OF DEATH IN DRUG-TREATED PATIENTS OF BETWEEN 1.6 TO 1.7 TIMES THE RISK OF DEATH IN PLACEBO-TREATED PATIENTS. OVER THE COURSE OF A TYPICAL 10-WEEK CONTROLLED TRIAL, THE RATE OF DEATH IN DRUG-TREATED PATIENTS WAS ABOUT 4.5%, COMPARED TO A RATE OF ABOUT 2.6% IN THE PLACEBO GROUP. ALTHOUGH THE CAUSES OF DEATH WERE VARIED, MOST OF THE DEATHS APPEARED TO BE EITHER CARDIOVASCULAR (eg, HEART FAILURE, SUDDEN DEATH) OR INFECTIOUS (eg, PNEUMONIA) IN NATURE. OBSERVATIONAL STUDIES SUGGEST THAT, SIMILAR TO ATYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTIC DRUGS, TREATMENT WITH CONVENTIONAL ANTIPSYCHOTIC DRUGS MAY INCREASE MORTALITY. THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE FINDINGS OF INCREASED MORTALITY IN OBSERVATIONAL STUDIES MAY BE ATTRIBUTED TO THE ANTIPSYCHOTIC DRUG AS OPPOSED TO SOME CHARACTERISTIC(S) OF THE PATIENTS IS NOT CLEAR. FAZACLO (clozapine, USP) IS NOT APPROVED FOR THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS. (SEE WARNINGS.)

DESCRIPTION

FazaClo (clozapine, USP), an atypical antipsychotic drug, is a tricyclic dibenzodiazepine derivative, 8-chloro-11-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-5H-dibenzo[b,e][1,4]diazepine.

The structural formula is:

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is available as yellow, orally disintegrating tablets of 12.5, 25, 100, 150, and 200mg for oral administration without water. FazaClo tablets may be chewed.

Each orally disintegrating tablet contains clozapine equivalent to 12.5, 25, 100, 150, or 200 mg.

12.5, 25, 100, 150, and 200 mg Orally Disintegrating Tablets

Active Ingredient

Clozapine is a yellow, crystalline powder, very slightly soluble in water.

Inactive Ingredients

Aminoalkyl methacrylate copolymer E, mannitol, aspartame, microcrystalline cellulose*, silicified microcrystalline cellulose**, crospovidone, natural and artificial mint flavor, sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, ferric oxide (yellow), and magnesium stearate

*12.5, 25, and 100 mg tablets

**150 and 200 mg tablets

THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS ASPARTAME AND IS NOT INTENDED FOR USE BY INFANTS. PHENYLKETONURICS: CONTAINS PHENYLALANINE. Phenylalanine is a component of aspartame. Each 12.5 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 1.6mg aspartame, thus, 0.87mg phenylalanine. Each 25 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 3.1mg aspartame, thus, 1.74 mg phenylalanine. Each 100 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 12.4mg aspartame, thus, 6.96 mg phenylalanine. Each 150 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 18.6 mg aspartame, thus, 10.44 mg phenylalanine. Each 200 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 24.8 mg aspartame, thus, 13.92 mg phenylalanine. The allowable daily intake of aspartame is 50mg per kilogram of body weight per day. (See PRECAUTIONS, Phenylketonurics.)

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Pharmacodynamics

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is classified as an “atypical” antipsychotic drug because its profile of binding to dopamine receptors and its effects on various dopamine mediated behaviors differ from those exhibited by more typical antipsychotic drug products. In particular, although FazaClo (clozapine, USP) does interfere with the binding of dopamine at D1, D2, D3, and D5receptors, and has a high affinity for the D4 receptor, it does not induce catalepsy nor inhibit apomorphine-induced stereotypy. This evidence, consistent with the view that FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is preferentially more active at limbic than at striatal dopamine receptors, may explain the relative freedom of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) from extrapyramidal side effects.

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) also acts as an antagonist at adrenergic, cholinergic, histaminergic, and serotonergic receptors.

Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion

In man, clozapine tablets (25 and 100 mg) are equally bioavailable relative to a clozapine solution. FazaClo (clozapine, USP) orally disintegrating tablets are bioequivalent to Clozaril® (clozapine) tablets, a registered trademark of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Following a dosage of 100mg b.i.d., the average steady-state peak plasma concentration was 413ng/mL (range: 132-854 ng/mL), occurring at the average of 2.3 hours (range: 1-6 hours) after dosing. The average minimum concentration at steady state was 168ng/mL (range: 45-574 ng/mL), after 100 mg b.i.d. dosing.

A comparative bioequivalence/bioavailability study was conducted in 32 patients (with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder) comparing FazaClo 200 mg tablets to 2 × FazaClo 100 mg tablets (the approved reference product) under fasted conditions. The study also eva luated the effect of food and chewing on the pharmacokinetics of the 200 mg tablet. Under fasted conditions, the mean AUCss and Cmin,ss of clozapine for the 200 mg tablets were equivalent to those of the 2 x 100 mg tablets. The mean Cmax,ss of clozapine for FazaClo 200 mg tablets was 85% that for 2 x 100 mg FazaClo tablets. This decrease in Cmax,ss for FazaClo 200 mg tablets is not clinically significant.

For FazaClo 200 mg tablets, food significantly increased the Cmin,ss of clozapine by 21%. However, this increase is not clinically significant. The mean AUCss and Cmax,ss of clozapine under fed conditions were equivalent to those under fasted conditions. Food delayed clozapine absorption by 1.5 hours, from a median Tmax of 2.5 hours under fasted conditions to 4 hours under fed conditions.

The mean Cmax,ss of clozapine under chewed conditions for FazaClo 200 mg tablets was about 86% that for 2 x 100 mg FazaClo tablets under non-chewed conditions, while the AUCss and Cmin,ss values were similar between the chewed and non-chewed conditions.

In a food-effect study, a single dose of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) orally disintegrating tablets 12.5 mg was administered to healthy volunteers under fasting conditions and after a high-fat meal. When FazaClo was administered after a high fat meal, the Cmax of both clozapine and its active metabolite, desmethylclozapine, were decreased by approximately 20%, compared to administration under fasting conditions, while the AUC values were unchanged. This decrease in Cmax is not clinically significant. Therefore, FazaClo (clozapine, USP) orally disintegrating tablets can be taken without regard to meals.

Clozapine is approximately 97% bound to serum proteins. The interaction between clozapine and other highly protein-bound drugs has not been fully eva luated but may be important. (See PRECAUTIONS.)

Clozapine is almost completely metabolized prior to excretion and only trace amounts of unchanged drug are detected in the urine and feces. Approximately 50% of the administered dose is excreted in the urine and 30% in the feces. The demethylated, hydroxylated, and N-oxide derivatives are components in both urine and feces. Pharmacological testing has shown the desmethyl metabolite (norclozapine) to have only limited activity, while the hydroxylated and N-oxide derivatives were inactive.

The mean elimination half-life of clozapine after a single 75 mg dose was 8hours (range:4-12hours), compared to a mean elimination half-life, after achieving steady state with 100 mg b.i.d. dosing, of 12 hours (range: 4-66 hours). A comparison of single-dose and multiple-dose administration of clozapine showed that the elimination half-life increased significantly after multiple dosing relative to that after single-dose administration, suggesting the possibility of concentration-dependent pharmacokinetics. However, at steady state, linearly dose-proportional changes with respect to AUC (area under the curve), peak, and minimum clozapine plasma concentrations were observed after administration of 37.5, 75, and 150mgb.i.d.

Human Pharmacology

In contrast to more typical antipsychotic drugs, clozapine therapy produces little or no prolactin elevation.

As is true of more typical antipsychotic drugs, clinical electroencephalogram (EEG) studies have shown that clozapine increases delta and theta activity and slows dominant alpha frequencies. Enhanced synchronization occurs; sharp wave activity and spike and wave complexes may also develop. Patients, on rare occasions, may report an intensification of dream activity during clozapine therapy. REM sleep was found to be increased to 85% of the total sleep time. In these patients, the onset of REM sleep occurred almost immediately after falling asleep.

Clinical Trial Data (Reducing the Risk of Recurrent Suicidal Behavior in Patients with Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder Who Are Judged to Be at Risk of Reexperiencing Suicidal Behavior)

The effectiveness of clozapine in reducing the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior was assessed in the International Suicide Prevention Trial (InterSePT™, a trademark of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation), which was a prospective, randomized, international, parallel-group comparison of clozapine (Clozaril®) versus olanzapine (Zyprexa®, a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company) in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (DSM-IV) who were judged to be at risk for reexperiencing suicidal behavior. Only about one-fourth of these patients (27%) were considered resistant to standard antipsychotic drug treatment and the remainder were not. Patients met one of the following criteria:

They had attempted suicide within the three years prior to their baseline eva luation.
They had been hospitalized to prevent a suicide attempt within the three years prior to their baseline eva luation.
They demonstrated moderate-to-severe suicidal ideation with a depressive component within one week prior to their baseline eva luation.
They demonstrated moderate-to-severe suicidal ideation accompanied by command hallucinations to do self-harm within one week prior to their baseline eva luation.

Dosing regimens for each treatment group were determined by individual investigators and were individualized by patient. Dosing was flexible, with a dose range of 200–900mg/day for clozapine and 5–20 mg/day for olanzapine. For the 956 patients who received clozapine or olanzapine in this study, there was extensive use of concomitant psychotropics: 84% with antipsychotics, 65% with anxiolytics, 53% with antidepressants, and 28% with mood stabilizers. There was significantly greater use of concomitant psychotropic medications among the patients in the olanzapine group.

The primary efficacy measure was time to (1) a significant suicide attempt, including a completed suicide; (2) hospitalization due to imminent suicide risk, including increased level of surveillance for suicidality for patients already hospitalized; or (3) worsening of suicidality severity as demonstrated by “much worsening” or “very much worsening” from baseline in the Clinical Global Impression of Severity of Suicidality as assessed by the Blinded Psychiatrist (CGI-SS-BP) scale. A determination of whether or not a reported event met criterion1 or 2 above was made by the Suicide Monitoring Board (SMB), a group of experts blinded to patient data.

A total of 980 patients were randomized to the study and 956 received study medication. Sixty-two percent of the patients were diagnosed with schizophrenia, and the remainder (38%) were diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Only about one-fourth of the total patient population (27%) was identified as “treatment-resistant” at baseline. There were more males than females in the study (61% of all patients were male). The mean age of patients entering the study was 37years of age (range 18–69). Most patients were Caucasian (71%), 15% were Black, 1% were Asian, and 13% were classified as being of “other” races.

Data from this study indicate that clozapine had a statistically significant longer delay in the time to recurrent suicidal behavior in comparison with olanzapine. This result should be interpreted only as evidence of the effectiveness of clozapine in delaying time to recurrent suicidal behavior and not a demonstration of the superior efficacy of clozapine over olanzapine.

The probability of experiencing (1) a significant suicide attempt, including a completed suicide, or (2)hospitalization due to imminent suicide risk, including increased level of surveillance for suicidality for patients already hospitalized, was lower for clozapine patients than for olanzapine patients at Week 104: clozapine 24% versus olanzapine 32%; 95% CI of the difference: 2%, 14% (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Kaplan-Meier Estimates of Cumulative Probability of a Significant Suicide Attempt or Hospitalization to Prevent Suicide

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is indicated for the management of severely ill schizophrenic patients who fail to respond adequately to standard drug treatment for schizophrenia. Because of the significant risk of agranulocytosis and seizure associated with its use, FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be used only in patients who have failed to respond adequately to treatment with appropriate courses of standard drug treatments for schizophrenia, either because of insufficient effectiveness or the inability to achieve an effective dose due to intolerable adverse effects from those drugs. (See WARNINGS.)

The effectiveness of clozapine in a treatment-resistant schizophrenic population was demonstrated in a 6-week study comparing clozapine and chlorpromazine. Patients meeting DSM-III criteria for schizophrenia and having a mean Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) total score of 61 were demonstrated to be treatment-resistant by history and by open, prospective treatment with haloperidol before entering into the double-blind phase of the study. The superiority of clozapine to chlorpromazine was documented in statistical analyses employing both categorical and continuous measures of treatment effect.

Because of the significant risk of agranulocytosis and seizures, events which both present a continuing risk over time, the extended treatment of patients failing to show an acceptable level of clinical response should ordinarily be avoided. In addition, the need for continuing treatment in patients exhibiting beneficial clinical responses should be periodically reeva luated.

Reduction in the Risk of Recurrent Suicidal Behavior in Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorders

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) 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 reexperiencing 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 in reducing the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior was demonstrated over a two-year treatment period in the InterSePT™ Trial (see Clinical Trial Data under CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Therefore, FazaClo (clozapine, USP) treatment to reduce the risk of suicidal behavior should be continued for at least two years (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

The prescriber should be aware that a majority of patients in both treatment groups in InterSePT™ received other treatments as well to reduce suicide risk, such as antidepressants and other medications, hospitalization, and/or psychotherapy. The contributions of these additional measures are unknown.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is contraindicated in patients with a previous hypersensitivity to clozapine or any other component of this drug, in patients with myeloproliferative disorders, uncontrolled epilepsy, paralytic ileus, or a history of clozapine-induced agranulocytosis or severe granulocytopenia. As with more typical antipsychotic drugs, FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is contraindicated in severe central nervous system (CNS) depression or comatose states from any cause.

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should not be used simultaneously with other agents having a well-known potential to cause agranulocytosis or otherwise suppress bone marrow function. The mechanism of clozapine-induced agranulocytosis is unknown; nonetheless, it is possible that causative factors may interact synergistically to increase the risk and/or severity of bone marrow suppression.

WARNINGS

General

INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS

ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS TREATED WITH ANTIPSYCHOTIC DRUGS ARE AT AN INCREASED RISK OF DEATH. FAZACLO (clozapine, USP) IS NOT APPROVED FOR THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS. (SEE BOXED WARNING.)

AGRANULOCYTOSIS

BECAUSE OF THE SIGNIFICANT RISK OF AGRANULOCYTOSIS, A POTENTIALLY LIFE-THREATENING ADVERSE EVENT (SEE FOLLOWING), FAZACLO (clozapine, USP) SHOULD BE RESERVED FOR USE IN THE FOLLOWING INDICATIONS: 1) FOR TREATMENT OF SEVERELY ILL PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA WHO FAIL TO SHOW AN ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE TO ADEQUATE COURSES OF STANDARD DRUG TREATMENT FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA, EITHER BECAUSE OF INSUFFICIENT EFFECTIVENESS OR THE INABILITY TO ACHIEVE AN EFFECTIVE DOSE DUE TO INTOLERABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS FROM THOSE DRUGS. CONSEQUENTLY, BEFORE INITIATING TREATMENT WITH FAZACLO (clozapine, USP), IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT A PATIENT BE GIVEN AT LEAST 2 TRIALS, EACH WITH A DIFFERENT STANDARD DRUG PRODUCT FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA, AT AN ADEQUATE DOSE AND FOR AN ADEQUATE DURATION. 2) FOR REDUCING THE RISK FOR RECURRENT SUICIDAL BEHAVIOR IN PATIENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA OR SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER WHO ARE JUDGED TO BE AT RISK OF RE-EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL BEHAVIOR.

FAZACLO (clozapine, USP) IS AVAILABLE ONLY THROUGH A DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM THAT ENSURES MONITORING OF WBC COUNT AND ANC ACCORDING TO THE SCHEDULE DESCRIBED BELOW PRIOR TO DELIVERY OF THE NEXT SUPPLY OF MEDICATION.

AS DESCRIBED IN TABLE 1, PATIENTS WHO ARE BEING TREATED WITH FAZACLO (clozapine, USP) MUST HAVE A BASELINE WBC COUNT AND ANC BEFORE INITIATION OF TREATMENT, AND A WBC COUNT AND ANC EVERY WEEK FOR THE FIRST 6MONTHS. THEREAFTER, IF ACCEPTABLE WBC COUNTS AND ANCs (WBC COUNT ≥3500/mm3 AND ANC ≥2000/mm3) HAVE BEEN MAINTAINED DURING THE FIRST 6MONTHS OF CONTINUOUS THERAPY, WBC COUNTS AND ANCs CAN BE MONITORED EVERY 2 WEEKS FOR THE NEXT 6MONTHS. THEREAFTER, IF ACCEPTABLE WBC COUNTS AND ANCs (WBC COUNT ≥3500/mm3 AND ANC ≥2000/mm3) HAVE BEEN MAINTAINED DURING THE SECOND 6 MONTHS OF CONTINUOUS THERAPY, WBC COUNT AND ANC CAN BE MONITORED EVERY 4 WEEKS.

WHEN TREATMENT WITH FAZACLO (clozapine, USP) IS DISCONTINUED (REGARDLESS OF THE REASON), WBC COUNT AND ANC MUST BE MONITORED WEEKLY FOR AT LEAST 4WEEKS FROM THE DAY OF DISCONTINUATION OR UNTIL WBC COUNT ≥3500/mm3 AND ANC ≥2000/mm3.

Agranulocytosis

Background

Agranulocytosis, defined as an ANC of less than 500/mm3, has been estimated to occur in association with clozapine use at a cumulative incidence at 1 year of approximately 1.3%, based on the occurrence of 15 US cases out of 1743 patients exposed to clozapine during its clinical testing prior to domestic marketing. All of these cases occurred at a time when the need for close monitoring of WBC counts was already recognized. Agranulocytosis could prove fatal if not detected early and therapy interrupted. Of the 149 cases of agranulocytosis reported worldwide in association with clozapine use as of December 31, 1989, 32% were fatal. However, few of these deaths occurred since 1977, at which time the knowledge of clozapine-induced agranulocytosis became more widespread, and close monitoring of WBC counts more widely practiced. In the United States, under a weekly WBC count monitoring system with clozapine, there have been 585 cases of agranulocytosis as of August 21, 1997; 19 were fatal (3%). During this period, 150,409 patients received clozapine. A hematologic risk analysis was conducted based upon the available information in the Clozapine National Registry for US patients. Based upon a cut-off date of April 30, 1995, the incidence rates of agranulocytosis based upon a weekly monitoring schedule rose steeply during the first two months of therapy, peaking in the third month. Among clozapine patients who continued the drug beyond the third month, the weekly incidence of agranulocytosis fell a substantial degree. After 6months, the weekly incidence of agranulocytosis declines still further; however, it never reaches zero. It should be noted that any type of reduction in the frequency of monitoring WBC counts may result in an increased incidence of agranulocytosis.

Risk Factors

Experience from clinical development, as well as from examples in the medical literature, suggests that patients who have developed agranulocytosis during FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy are at increased risk of subsequent episodes of agranulocytosis. Analysis of WBC count data from the Clozapine National Registry also suggests that patients who have an initial episode of moderate leukopenia (3000/mm3>WBC count≥2000/mm3) are at an increased risk of subsequent episodes of agranulocytosis. Except for bone-marrow suppression during initial clozapine therapy, there are no other established risk factors based on worldwide experience for the development of agranulocytosis in association with clozapine use. However, a disproportionate number of the US cases of agranulocytosis occurred in patients of Jewish background compared to the overall proportion of such patients exposed during domestic development of clozapine. Most of the US cases of agranulocytosis occurred within 4-10 weeks of exposure, but neither dose nor duration is a reliable predictor of this problem. Agranulocytosis associated with other antipsychotic drugs has been reported to occur with a greater frequency in women, the elderly, and in patients who are cachectic or have serious underlying medical illness; such patients may also be at particular risk with FazaClo (clozapine, USP), although this has not been definitively demonstrated.

WBC Count and ANC Clinical Monitoring Schedule

Table 1 provides a summary of the frequency of monitoring that should occur based on various stages of therapy (eg, initiation of therapy) or results from WBC count and ANC monitoring tests (eg, moderate leukopenia). The text that follows should be consulted for additional details regarding the treatment of patients under the various conditions (eg,severe leukopenia).

Patients should be advised to immediately report the appearance of lethargy, weakness, fever, sore throat, or any other signs of infection occurring at any time during FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy. Such patients should have a WBC count and an ANC performed promptly.

Table 1. Frequency of Monitoring Based on Stage of Therapy or Results from WBC Count and ANC Monitoring Tests

Situation Hematological Values for Monitoring Frequency of WBC Count and ANC Monitoring

WBC = White blood cell
ANC = Absolute neutrophil count

Initiation of therapy WBCcount ≥3500/mm3 and
ANC≥2000/mm3
Note: Do not initiate in patients with
(1)history of myeloproliferative disorder or
(2)clozapine-induced agranulocytosis or granulocytopenia. Weekly for 6 months

6-12 months of therapy All results for
WBCcount ≥3500/mm3 and
ANC≥2000/mm3 Every 2 weeks for 6 months

12 months of therapy All results for
WBCcount ≥3500/mm3 and
ANC≥2000/mm3 Every 4 weeks ad infinitum

Immature forms present N/A Repeat WBC count and ANC

Discontinuation of therapy N/A Weekly for at least 4 weeks from day of discontinuation or until WBC count ≥3500/mm3 and ANC ≥2000/mm3

Substantial drop in WBC count or ANC Single drop or cumulative drop within 3 weeks of WBCcount ≥3000/mm3 or ANC≥1500/mm3

Repeat WBC count and ANC

If repeat values are 3000/mm3 ≤WBC count ≤3500/mm3 and ANC>2000/mm3, then monitor twice weekly

Mild leukopenia
and/or
Mild granulocytopenia 3500/mm3 >WBC count ≥3000/mm3
and/or 2000/mm3 >ANC ≥1500/mm3 Twice weekly until WBCcount >3500/mm3 and ANC>2000/mm3 then return to previous monitoring frequency

Moderate leukopenia
and/or
Moderate granulocytopenia 3000/mm3 >WBC count ≥2000/mm3
and/or 1500/mm3 >ANC ≥1000/mm3

Interrupt therapy

Daily until WBCcount >3000/mm3 and ANC>1500/mm3

Twice weekly until WBCcount >3500/mm3 and ANC>2000/mm3

May rechallenge when WBCcount >3500/mm3 and ANC>2000/mm3

If rechallenged, monitor weekly for 1 year before returning to the usual monitoring schedule of every 2weeks for 6months and then every 4weeks adinfinitum

Severe leukopenia
and/or
Severe granulocytopenia WBCcount <2000/mm3
and/or ANC<1000/mm3

Discontinue treatment and do not rechallenge patient

Monitor until normal and for at least four weeks from day of discontinuation as follows:

Daily until WBCcount >3000/mm3 and ANC>1500/mm3

Twice weekly until WBCcount >3500/mm3 and ANC>2000/mm3

Weekly after WBCcount >3500/mm3

Agranulocytosis ANC<500/mm3

Discontinue treatment and do not rechallenge patient

Monitor until normal and for at least four weeks from day of discontinuation as follows:

Daily until WBCcount >3000/mm3 and ANC>1500/mm3

Twice weekly until WBCcount >3500/mm3 and ANC>2000/mm3

Weekly after WBC count >3500/mm3
Decrements in WBC Count and/or ANC

Consult Table 1 above to determine how to monitor patients who experience decrements in WBC count and/or ANC at any point during treatment. Additionally, patients should be carefully monitored for flu-like symptoms or other symptoms suggestive of infection.

Nonrechallengeable Patients

If the total WBC count falls below 2000/mm3 or the ANC falls below 1000/mm3, bone-marrow aspiration should be considered to ascertain granulopoietic status and patients should not be rechallenged with FazaClo (clozapine, USP). Protective isolation with close observation may be indicated if granulopoiesis is determined to be deficient. Should evidence of infection develop, the patient should have appropriate cultures performed and an appropriate antibiotic regimen instituted.

Patients discontinued from clozapine therapy due to significant granulopoietic suppression have been found to develop agranulocytosis upon rechallenge, often with a shorter latency on reexposure. To reduce the chances of rechallenge occurring in patients who have experienced significant bone-marrow suppression during FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy, a single, national master file (ie, Nonrechallengeable Database) is confidentially maintained.

Treatment of Rechallengeable Patients

Patients may be rechallenged with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) if their WBC count does not fall below 2000/mm3 and the ANC does not fall below 1000/mm3. However, analysis of the data from the Clozapine National Registry suggests that patients who have an initial episode of moderate leukopenia (3000/mm3>WBC count≥2000/mm3) have up to a 12-fold increased risk of having a subsequent episode of agranulocytosis when rechallenged as compared to the full cohort of patients treated with clozapine. Although FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy may be resumed if no symptoms of infection develop and when the WBC count rises above 3500/mm3 and the ANC rises above 2000/mm3, prescribers are strongly advised to consider whether the benefit of continuing FazaClo (clozapine, USP) treatment outweighs the increased risk of agranulocytosis.

Analyses of the Clozapine National Registry have shown an increased risk of having a subsequent episode of granulopoietic suppression up to a year after recovery from the initial episode. Therefore, as noted in Table 1, patients must undergo weekly WBC count and ANC monitoring for one year following recovery from an episode of moderate leukopenia and/or moderate granulocytopenia regardless of when the episode develops. If acceptable WBC counts and ANC (WBC count ≥3500/mm3 and ANC ≥2000/mm3) have been maintained during the year of weekly monitoring, WBC counts can be monitored every 2weeks for the next 6months. If acceptable WBC counts and ANC (WBC count ≥3500/mm3 and ANC ≥2000/mm3) continue to be maintained during the 6 months of every-2-week monitoring, WBC counts can be monitored every 4 weeks thereafter, adinfinitum.

Interruptions in Therapy

Figure 2 provides instructions regarding reinitiating therapy and subsequently the frequency of WBC count and ANC monitoring after a period of interruption.

Eosinophilia

In clinical trials, 1% of patients developed eosinophilia, which, in rare cases, can be substantial. If a differential count reveals a total eosinophil count above 4000/mm3, FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy should be interrupted until the eosinophil count falls below 3000/mm3.

Seizures

Seizure has been estimated to occur in association with clozapine use at a cumulative incidence at one year of approximately 5%, based on the occurrence of one or more seizures in 61 of 1743 patients exposed to clozapine during its clinical testing prior to domestic marketing (ie, a crude rate of 3.5%). Dose appears to be an important predictor of seizure, with a greater likelihood of seizure at the higher clozapine doses used.

Caution should be used in administering FazaClo (clozapine, USP) to patients having a history of seizures or other predisposing factors. Because of the substantial risk of seizure associated with clozapine use, patients should be advised not to engage in any activity where sudden loss of consciousness could cause serious risk to themselves or others (eg,the operation of complex machinery, driving an automobile, swimming, climbing, etc.).

Myocarditis

Postmarketing surveillance data from four countries that employ hematological monitoring of clozapine-treated patients revealed: 30 reports of myocarditis with 17 fatalities in 205,493 US patients (August 2001); 7 reports of myocarditis with 1 fatality in 15,600Canadian patients (April 2001); 30 reports of myocarditis with 8 fatalities in 24,108UK patients (August 2001); 15 reports of myocarditis with 5 fatalities in 8000Australian patients (March 1999). These reports represent an incidence of 5.0, 16.3, 43.2, and 96.6 cases/100,000 patient years, respectively. The number of fatalities represent an incidence of 2.8, 2.3, 11.5, and 32.2 cases/100,000 patient years, respectively.

The overall incidence rate of myocarditis in patients with schizophrenia treated with antipsychotic agents is unknown. However, for the established market economies, World Health Organization (WHO), the incidence of myocarditis is 0.3cases/100,000 patient years and the fatality rate is 0.2cases/100,000 patient years. Therefore, the rate of myocarditis in clozapine-treated patients appears to be 17-322 times greater than the general population and is associated with an increased risk of fatal myocarditis that is 14-161 times greater than the general population.

The total reports of myocarditis for these four countries were 82, of which 51 (62%) occurred within the first month of clozapine treatment, 25 (31%) occurred after the first month of therapy, and 6 (7%) were unknown. The median duration of treatment was 3weeks. Of 5 patients rechallenged with clozapine, 3 had a recurrence of myocarditis. Of the 82 reports, 31 (38%) were fatal, and 25 patients who died had evidence of myocarditis at autopsy. These data also suggest that the incidence of fatal myocarditis may be highest during the first month of therapy.

Therefore, the possibility of myocarditis should be considered in patients receiving FazaClo (clozapine, USP) who present with unexplained fatigue, dyspnea, tachypnea, fever, chest pain, palpitations, other signs or symptoms of heart failure, or electrocardiographic findings such as ST-T wave abnormalities or arrhythmias. It is not known whether eosinophilia is a reliable predictor of myocarditis. Tachycardia, which has been associated with clozapine treatment, has also been noted as a presenting sign in patients with myocarditis. Therefore, tachycardia during the first month of therapy warrants close monitoring for other signs of myocarditis.

Prompt discontinuation of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) treatment is warranted upon suspicion of myocarditis. Patients with clozapine-related myocarditis should not be rechallenged with FazaClo (clozapine, USP).

Other Adverse Cardiovascular and Respiratory Effects

Orthostatic hypotension with or without syncope can occur with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) treatment and may represent a continuing risk in some patients. Rarely (approximately 1 case per 3000 patients), collapse can be profound and be accompanied by respiratory and/or cardiac arrest. Orthostatic hypotension is more likely to occur during initial titration in association with rapid-dose escalation and may even occur on first dose. In one report, initial doses as low as 12.5 mg were associated with collapse and respiratory arrest. When restarting patients who have had even a brief interval off FazaClo (clozapine, USP) (ie, 2 days or more since the last dose), it is recommended that treatment be reinitiated with a 12.5 mg dose once or twice daily. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.)

Some of the cases of collapse/respiratory arrest/cardiac arrest during initial treatment occurred in patients who were being administered benzodiazepines; similar events have been reported in patients taking other psychotropic drugs or even clozapine by itself. Although it has not been established that there is an interaction between FazaClo (clozapine, USP) and benzodiazepines or other psychotropics, caution is advised when clozapine is initiated in patients taking a benzodiazepine or any other psychotropic drug.

Tachycardia, which may be sustained, has also been observed in approximately 25% of patients taking clozapine, with patients having an average increase in pulse rate of 10-15 bpm. The sustained tachycardia is not simply a reflex response to hypotension and is present in all positions monitored. Either tachycardia or hypotension may pose a serious risk for an individual with compromised cardiovascular function.

A minority of clozapine-treated patients experience ECG repolarization changes similar to those seen with other antipsychotic drugs, including S-T segment depression and flattening or inversion of T-waves, which all normalize after discontinuation of clozapine. The clinical significance of these changes is unclear. However, in clinical trials with clozapine, several patients experienced significant cardiac events, including ischemic changes, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and sudden death. In addition, there have been postmarketing reports of congestive heart failure, pericarditis, and pericardial effusions. Causality assessment was difficult in many of these cases because of serious preexisting cardiac disease and plausible alternative causes. Rare instances of sudden death have been reported in psychiatric patients, with or without associated antipsychotic drug treatment, and the relationship of these events to antipsychotic drug use is unknown.

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be used with caution in patients with known cardiovascular and/or pulmonary disease, and the recommendation for gradual titration of dose should be carefully observed.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

A potentially fatal symptom complex sometimes referred to as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) has been reported in association with antipsychotic drugs. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmias).

The diagnostic eva luation of patients with this syndrome is complicated. In arriving at a diagnosis, it is important to identify cases where the clinical presentation includes both serious medical illness (eg, pneumonia, systemic infection, etc.) and untreated or inadequately treated extrapyramidal signs and symptoms (EPS). Other important considerations in the differential diagnosis include central anticholinergic toxicity, heat stroke, drug fever, and primary CNS pathology.

The management of NMS should include (1) immediate discontinuation of antipsychotic drugs and other drugs not essential to concurrent therapy, (2) intensive symptomatic treatment and medical monitoring, and (3) treatment of any concomitant serious medical problems for which specific treatments are available. There is no general agreement about specific pharmacological treatment regimens for uncomplicated NMS.

If a patient requires antipsychotic drug treatment after recovery from NMS, the potential reintroduction of drug therapy should be carefully considered. The patient should be carefully monitored, since recurrences of NMS have been reported.

There have been several reported cases of NMS in patients receiving clozapine alone or in combination with lithium or other CNS-active agents.

Tardive Dyskinesia

A syndrome consisting of potentially irreversible, involuntary, dyskinetic movements may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs. Although the preva lence of the syndrome appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women, it is impossible to rely upon preva lence estimates to predict at the inception of treatment which patients are likely to develop the syndrome.

There are several reasons for predicting that FazaClo (clozapine, USP) may be different from other antipsychotic drugs in its potential for inducing tardive dyskinesia, including the preclinical finding that it has a relatively weak dopamine-blocking effect and the clinical finding of a low incidence of certain acute extrapyramidal symptoms (eg, dystonia). A few cases of tardive dyskinesia have been reported in patients on clozapine who had been previously treated with other antipsychotic agents, so that a causal relationship cannot be established. There have been no reports of tardive dyskinesia directly attributable to clozapine alone. Nevertheless, it cannot be concluded without more extended experience that FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is incapable of inducing this syndrome.

Both the risk of developing the syndrome and the likelihood that it will become irreversible are believed to increase as the duration of treatment and the total cumulative dose of antipsychotic drugs administered to the patient increase. However, the syndrome can develop, although much less commonly, after relatively brief treatment periods at low doses. There is no known treatment for established cases of tardive dyskinesia, although the syndrome may remit partially or completely if antipsychotic drug treatment is withdrawn. Antipsychotic drug treatment itself, however, may suppress (or partially suppress) the signs and symptoms of the syndrome and, thereby, may possibly mask the underlying process. The effect that symptom suppression has upon the long-term course of the syndrome is unknown.

Given these considerations, FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be prescribed in a manner that is most likely to minimize the occurrence of tardive dyskinesia. As with any antipsychotic drug, chronic FazaClo (clozapine, USP) use should be reserved for patients who appear to be obtaining substantial benefit from the drug. In such patients, the smallest dose and the shortest duration of treatment should be sought. The need for continued treatment should be reassessed periodically.

If signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia appear in a patient on FazaClo (clozapine, USP), drug discontinuation should be considered. However, some patients may require treatment with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) despite the presence of the syndrome.

Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus

Hyperglycemia, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma or death, has been reported in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics including clozapine. Assessment of the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and glucose abnormalities is complicated by the possibility of an increased background risk of diabetes mellitus in patients with schizophrenia and the increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus in the general population. Given these confounders, the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and hyperglycemia-related adverse events is not completely understood. However, epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of treatment-emergent, hyperglycemia-related adverse events in patients treated with the atypical antipsychotics. Precise risk estimates for hyperglycemia-related adverse events in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics are not available.

Patients with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus who are started on atypical antipsychotics should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Patients with risk factors for diabetes mellitus (eg, obesity, family history of diabetes) who are starting treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing at the beginning of treatment and periodically during treatment. Any patient treated with atypical antipsychotics should be monitored for symptoms of hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperglycemia during treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing. In some cases, hyperglycemia has resolved when the atypical antipsychotic was discontinued; however, some patients required continuation of anti-diabetic treatment despite discontinuation of the suspect drug.

PRECAUTIONS

General

Because of the significant risk of agranulocytosis and seizure, both of which present a continuing risk over time, the extended treatment of patients failing to show an acceptable level of clinical response should ordinarily be avoided. In addition, the need for continuing treatment in patients exhibiting beneficial clinical responses should be periodically reeva luated. Although it is not known whether the risk would be increased, it is prudent to either avoid FazaClo (clozapine, USP) or use it cautiously in patients with a previous history of agranulocytosis induced by other drugs.

Cardiomyopathy

Cases of cardiomyopathy have been reported in patients treated with clozapine. The reporting rate for cardiomyopathy in clozapine-treated patients in the United States (8.9 per 100,000person-years) was similar to an estimate of the cardiomyopathy incidence in the US general population derived from the 1999 National Hospital Discharge Survey data (9.7 per 100,000 person-years). Approximately 80% of clozapine-treated patients in whom cardiomyopathy was reported were less than 50 years of age; the duration of treatment with clozapine prior to cardiomyopathy diagnosis varied, but was >6 months in 65% of the reports. Dilated cardiomyopathy was most frequently reported, although a large percentage of reports did not specify the type of cardiomyopathy. Signs and symptoms suggestive of cardiomyopathy, particularly exertional dyspnea, fatigue, orthopnea, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, and peripheral edema should alert the clinician to perform further investigations. If the diagnosis of cardiomyopathy is confirmed, the prescriber should discontinue clozapine unless the benefit to the patient clearly outweighs the risk.

Fever

During FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy, patients may experience transient temperature elevations above 100.4ºF (38ºC), with the peak incidence within the first 3 weeks of treatment. While this fever is generally benign and self-limiting, it may necessitate discontinuing patients from treatment. On occasion, there may be an associated increase or decrease in WBC count. Patients with fever should be carefully eva luated to rule out the possibility of an underlying infectious process or the development of agranulocytosis. In the presence of high fever, the possibility of NMS must be considered. There have been several reports of NMS in patients receiving clozapine, usually in combination with lithium or other CNS-active drugs. (See Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome under WARNINGS.)

Pulmonary Embolism

The possibility of pulmonary embolism should be considered in patients receiving FazaClo (clozapine, USP) who present with deep-vein thrombosis, acute dyspnea, chest pain, or with other respiratory signs and symptoms. As of December 31, 1993, there were 18 cases of fatal pulmonary embolism in association with clozapine therapy in users 10-54 years of age. Based upon the extent of use observed in the Clozapine National Registry, the mortality rate associated with pulmonary embolus was 1 death per 3450 person-years of use. This rate was about 27.5times higher than that in the general population of a similar age and gender (95% Confidence Interval; 17.1, 42.2). Deep-vein thrombosis has also been observed in association with clozapine therapy. Whether pulmonary embolus can be attributed to clozapine or some characteristic(s) of its users is not clear, but the occurrence of deep-vein thrombosis or respiratory symptomatology should suggest its presence.

Phenylketonurics

Phenylketonuric patients should be informed that FazaClo (clozapine, USP) contains phenylalanine (a component of aspartame). Each 12.5 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 0.87mg phenylalanine. Each 25 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 1.74 mg phenylalanine. Each 100 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 6.96 mg phenylalanine. Each 150 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 10.44 mg phenylalanine. Each 200 mg, orally disintegrating tablet contains 13.92 mg phenylalanine.

Hepatitis

Caution is advised in patients using FazaClo (clozapine, USP) who have concurrent hepatic disease. Hepatitis has been reported in both patients with normal and preexisting liver function abnormalities. In patients who develop nausea, vomiting, and/or anorexia during FazaClo (clozapine, USP) treatment, liver function tests should be performed immediately. If the elevation of these values is clinically relevant or if symptoms of jaundice occur, treatment with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be discontinued.

Anticholinergic Toxicity

Eye

Clozapine has potent anticholinergic effects and care should be exercised in using this drug in the presence of narrow-angle glaucoma.

Gastrointestinal

Clozapine use has been associated with varying degrees of impairment of intestinal peristalsis, ranging from constipation to intestinal obstruction, fecal impaction, and paralytic ileus. (See ADVERSE REACTIONS.) On rare occasions, these cases have been fatal. Constipation should be initially treated by ensuring adequate hydration and use of ancillary therapy such as bulk laxatives. Consultation with a gastroenterologist is advisable in more serious cases.

Prostate

Clozapine has potent anticholinergic effects and care should be exercised in using this drug in the presence of prostatic enlargement.

Interference with Cognitive and Motor Performance

Because of initial sedation, FazaClo (clozapine, USP) may impair mental and/or physical abilities, especially during the first few days of therapy. The recommendations for gradual-dose escalation should be carefully adhered to and patients cautioned about activities requiring alertness.

Cerebrovascular Adverse Events

An increased risk of cerebrovascular adverse events has been seen in the dementia population with some atypical antipsychotics. The mechanism for this increased risk is not known. An increased risk cannot be excluded for other antipsychotics or other patient populations. FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be used with caution in patients with risk factors for stroke.

Use in Patients with Concomitant Illness

Clinical experience with clozapine in patients with concomitant systemic diseases is limited. Nevertheless, caution is advisable in using FazaClo (clozapine, USP) in patients with renal or cardiac disease.

Use in Patients Undergoing General Anesthesia

Caution is advised in patients being administered general anesthesia because of the CNS effects of clozapine. Check with the anesthesiologist regarding continuation of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy in a patient scheduled for surgery.

Information for Patients

Physicians are advised to discuss the following issues with patients for whom they prescribe FazaClo (clozapine, USP):

Patients who are to receive FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be warned about the significant risk of developing agranulocytosis. Patients should be advised to immediately report the appearance of lethargy, weakness, fever, sore throat, malaise, mucous membrane ulceration, or other possible signs of infection. Particular attention should be paid to any flu-like complaints or other symptoms that might suggest infection.
- Patients should be informed that FazaClo (clozapine, USP) Orally Disintegrating Tablets will be made available only through a special program designed to ensure the required blood monitoring in order to reduce the risk of developing agranulocytosis. Patients should be informed that their WBC count and ANC will be monitored as follows:
  - Weekly blood tests are required for the first 6 months.
  - If acceptable WBC counts and ANCs (WBC count ≥3500/mm3 and ANC ≥2000/mm3) have been maintained during the first 6 months of continuous therapy, then WBC counts and ANCs can be monitored every 2 weeks for the next 6 months.
  - Thereafter, if acceptable WBC counts and ANCs have been maintained during the second 6months of continuous therapy, WBC counts and ANCs can be monitored every 4 weeks.
Patients should be informed of the significant risk of seizure during FazaClo (clozapine, USP) treatment, and they should be advised to avoid driving and any other potentially hazardous activity while taking FazaClo (clozapine, USP).
Patients with phenylketonuria should be aware that FazaClo (clozapine, USP) contains phenylalanine (a component of aspartame). (See PRECAUTIONS, Phenylketonurics.)
Patients should be advised of the risk of orthostatic hypotension, especially during the period of initial dose titration.
Patients should be informed that if they miss taking FazaClo (clozapine, USP) for more than 2days, they should not restart their medication at the same dosage but should contact their physician for dosing instructions.
Patients should notify their physician if they are taking or plan to take any prescription or over-the-counter drugs or alcohol.
Patients should notify their physician if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during therapy.
Patients should not breast feed an infant if they are taking FazaClo (clozapine, USP).
Patients should be advised that FazaClo (clozapine, USP) tablets should remain in the original package until immediately before use.

Drug Interactions

The risks of using FazaClo (clozapine, USP) in combination with other drugs have not been systematically eva luated. Concurrent psychopharmaceuticals may affect plasma clozapine levels, thus, plasma concentrations of clozapine may fluctuate, and dosage adjustment may be required to avoid adverse effects or clinical failure.

Pharmacodynamic-Related Interactions

Although the exact mechanism of clozapine-induced agranulocytosis is unknown, the possibility that causative factors may interact synergistically with clozapine to increase the risk and/or severity of bone-marrow suppression warrants consideration. Therefore, FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should not be used with other agents having a well-known potential to suppress bone-marrow function.

Given the primary CNS effects of clozapine, caution is advised in using it concomitantly with other CNS-active drugs or alcohol.

Orthostatic hypotension in patients taking clozapine can, in rare cases (approximately 1 case per 3000 patients), be accompanied by profound collapse and respiratory and/or cardiac arrest. Some of the cases of collapse/respiratory arrest/cardiac arrest during initial treatment occurred in patients who were being administered benzodiazepines; similar events have been reported in patients taking other psychotropic drugs or even clozapine by itself. Although it has not been established that there is an interaction between clozapine and benzodiazepines or other psychotropics, caution is advised when clozapine is initiated in patients taking a benzodiazepine or any other psychotropic drug.

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) may potentiate the hypotensive effects of antihypertensive drugs and the anticholinergic effects of atropine-type drugs. The administration of epinephrine should be avoided in the treatment of drug-induced hypotension because of a possible reverse epinephrine effect.

Pharmacokinetic-Related Interactions

Clozapine is a substrate for many cytochrome P450 isozymes, in particular CYP1A2, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. The risk of metabolic interactions caused by an effect on an individual isoform is, therefore, minimized. Nevertheless, caution should be used in patients receiving concomitant treatment of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) with other drugs which are either inhibitors or inducers of these enzymes.

Concomitant administration of drugs known to induce cytochrome P450 enzymes may decrease the plasma levels of clozapine. Phenytoin, tobacco smoke, carbamazepine, and rifampin may decrease FazaClo (clozapine, USP) plasma levels resulting in a decrease in effectiveness of a previously effective FazaClo (clozapine, USP) dose.

Concomitant administration of drugs known to inhibit the activity of cytochrome P450 isozymes may increase the plasma levels of clozapine. Cimetidine, caffeine, citalopram, ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine, and erythromycin may increase plasma levels of FazaClo (clozapine, USP), potentially resulting in adverse effects. Although concomitant use of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) and carbamazepine is not recommended, it should be noted that discontinuation of concomitant carbamazepine administration may result in an increase in FazaClo (clozapine, USP) plasma levels.

In a study of schizophrenic patients who received clozapine under steady-state conditions, fluvoxamine or paroxetine was added in 16 and 14 patients, respectively. After 14 days of coadministration, mean trough concentrations of clozapine and its metabolites, N-desmethylclozapine and clozapine N-oxide, were elevated with fluvoxamine by about three-fold compared to baseline concentrations. Paroxetine produced only minor changes in the levels of clozapine and its metabolites. However, other published reports describe modest elevations (less than two-fold) of clozapine and metabolite concentrations when clozapine was taken with paroxetine, fluoxetine, and sertraline. Therefore, such combined treatment should be approached with caution and patients should be monitored closely when FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is combined with these drugs, particularly with fluvoxamine. A reduced FazaClo (clozapine, USP) dose should be considered.

A subset (3%-10%) of the population has reduced activity of certain drug metabolizing enzymes such as the cytochrome P450 isozyme CYP2D6. Such individuals are referred to as “poor metabolizers” of drugs such as debrisoquin, dextromethorphan, tricyclic antidepressants, and clozapine. These individuals may develop higher than expected plasma concentrations of clozapine when given usual doses. In addition, certain drugs that are metabolized by this isozyme, including many antidepressants (clozapine, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and others), may inhibit the activity of this isozyme and, thus, may make normal metabolizers resemble poor metabolizers with regard to concomitant therapy with other drugs metabolized by this enzyme system, leading to drug interaction.

Concomitant use of clozapine with other drugs metabolized by P450 CYP2D6 may require lower doses than usually prescribed for either FazaClo (clozapine, USP) or the other drug. Therefore, coadministration of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) with other drugs that are metabolized by this isozyme, including antidepressants, phenothiazines, carbamazepine, and Type 1C antiarrhythmics (eg, propafenone, flecainide, and encainide), or that inhibit this enzyme (eg, quinidine) should be approached with caution.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

No carcinogenic potential was demonstrated in long-term studies in mice and rats at doses approximately 7 times the typical human dose on a mg/kg basis. Fertility in male and female rats was not adversely affected by clozapine. Clozapine did not produce genotoxic or mutagenic effects when assayed in appropriate bacterial and mammalian tests.

Pregnancy

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Pregnancy Category B

Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at doses of approximately 2-4times the human dose and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to clozapine. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response and in view of the desirability of keeping the administration of all drugs to a minimum during pregnancy, this drug should be used only if clearly needed.

Non-teratogenic Effects

Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms following delivery. There have been reports of agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, and feeding disorder in these neonates. These complications have varied in severity; while in some cases symptoms have been self-limited, in other cases neonates have required intensive care unit support and prolonged hospitalization.

Nursing Mothers

Animal studies suggest that clozapine may be excreted in breast milk and have an effect on the nursing infant. Therefore, women receiving FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should not breast feed.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of clozapine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects age 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently than younger subjects.

Orthostatic hypotension can occur with clozapine treatment, and tachycardia, which may be sustained, has been observed in about 25% of patients taking clozapine. (See BOXED WARNINGS, Other Adverse Cardiovascular and Respiratory Effects.) Elderly patients, particularly those with compromised cardiovascular functioning, may be more susceptible to these effects.

Also, elderly patients may be particularly susceptible to the anticholinergic effects of clozapine, such as urinary retention and constipation. (See PRECAUTIONS, Anticholinergic Toxicity.)

Dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Other reported clinical experience does suggest that the preva lence of tardive dyskinesia appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women. (See WARNINGS, Tardive Dyskinesia.)

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment

Sixteen percent of 1080 patients who received clozapine in premarketing clinical trials discontinued treatment due to an adverse event, including both those that could reasonably be attributed to clozapine treatment and those that might more appropriately be considered intercurrent illness. The more common events considered to be causes of discontinuation included: CNS, primarily drowsiness/sedation, seizures, dizziness/syncope; cardiovascular, primarily tachycardia, hypotension, and ECG changes; gastrointestinal, primarily nausea/vomiting; hematologic, primarily leukopenia/granulocytopenia/agranulocytosis; and fever. None of the events enumerated accounts for more than 1.7% of all discontinuations attributed to adverse clinical events.

Commonly Observed

Adverse events observed in association with the use of clozapine in clinical trials at an incidence of greater than 5% were: CNS complaints, including drowsiness/sedation, dizziness/vertigo, headache, and tremor; autonomic nervous system complaints, including salivation, sweating, dry mouth, and visual disturbances; cardiovascular findings, including tachycardia, hypotension, and syncope; gastrointestinal complaints, including constipation and nausea; and fever. Complaints of drowsiness/sedation tend to subside with continued therapy or dose reduction. Salivation may be profuse, especially during sleep, but may be diminished with dose reduction.

Incidence in Clinical Trials

Table 2 enumerates adverse events that occurred at a frequency of 1% or greater among clozapine patients who participated in clinical trials. These rates are not adjusted for duration of exposure.

Table 2. Treatment-Emergent Adverse Experience Incidence Among Patients Taking Clozapine in Clinical Trials (excluding the InterSePT™ Study) (N = 842) (percentage of patients reporting)

Body System
Adverse Event*
Percent

*

Events reported by at least 1% of clozapine patients are included.

†

Rate based on population of approximately 1700 exposed during premarket
clinical eva luation of clozapine.

Central Nervous System
Drowsiness/Sedation
Dizziness/Vertigo
Headache
Tremor
39
19
7
6

Syncope
Disturbed Sleep/Nightmares
Restlessness
Hypokinesia/Akinesia 6
4
4
4

Agitation
Seizures (convulsions)
Rigidity
Akathisia
Confusion
Fatigue
Insomnia 4
3†
3
3
3
2
2

Hyperkinesia
Weakness
Lethargy
Ataxia
Slurred Speech 1
1
1
1
1

Depression
Epileptiform Movements/Myoclonic Jerks
Anxiety 1
1
1

Cardiovascular
Tachycardia
Hypotension
Hypertension
Chest Pain/Angina
ECG Change/Cardiac Abnormality
25†
9
4
1
1

Gastrointestinal
Constipation
Nausea
Abdominal Discomfort/Heartburn
Nausea/Vomiting
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Liver Test Abnormality
Anorexia
14
5
4
3
3
2
1
1

Urogenital
Urinary Abnormalities
Incontinence
Abnormal Ejaculation
Urinary Urgency/Frequency
Urinary Retention
2
1
1
1
1

Autonomic Nervous System
Salivation
Sweating
Dry Mouth
Visual Disturbances
31
6
6
5

Integumentary (skin)
Rash
2

Musculoskeletal
Muscle Weakness
Pain (back, neck, legs)
Muscle Spasm
Muscle Pain, Ache
1
1
1
1

Respiratory
Throat Discomfort
Dyspnea, Shortness of Breath
Nasal Congestion
1
1
1

Hemic/Lymphatic
Leukopenia/Decreased WBC Count/Neutropenia
Agranulocytosis
Eosinophilia
3
1†
1

Miscellaneous
Fever
Weight Gain
Tongue Numb/Sore
5
4
1
Table 3 enumerates adverse events that occurred at a frequency of 10% for either treatment group in patients who took at least one dose of study medication during their participation in InterSePT™, which was an adequate and well-controlled, two-year study eva luating the efficacy of clozapine relative to olanzapine in reducing the risk of emergent suicidal behavior in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. These rates are not adjusted for duration of exposure.

Table 3. Treatment-Emergent Adverse Experience Incidence* Among Patients Taking Clozapine or Olanzapine in the InterSePT™ Study (percentage of patients reporting)

Clozapine Olanzapine

N = 479 N = 477

Adverse Events % Reporting % Reporting

NEC = Not elsewhere classified.
NOS = Not otherwise specified.

*

Adverse events are listed by frequency in clozapine group, and included in the table are those for which the risk ratio of clozapine over olanzapine or of olanzapine over clozapine was greater than 1.5.

Salivary hypersecretion 48% 6%

Somnolence 46% 25%

Weight increased 31% 56%

Dizziness (excluding vertigo) 27% 12%

Constipation 25% 10%

Insomnia NEC 20% 33%

Nausea 17% 10%

Vomiting NOS 17% 9%

Dyspepsia 14% 8%
Other Events Observed During the Premarketing eva luation of Clozapine

This section reports additional, less frequent adverse events which occurred among the patients taking clozapine in clinical trials. Various adverse events were reported as part of the total experience in these clinical studies; a causal relationship to clozapine treatment cannot be determined in the absence of appropriate controls in some of the studies. Table 2 enumerates adverse events that occurred at a frequency of at least 1% of patients treated with clozapine. The list below includes all additional adverse experiences reported as being temporally associated with the use of the drug which occurred at a frequency less than 1%, enumerated by organ system.

Central Nervous System

Loss of speech, amentia, tics, poor coordination, delusions/hallucinations, involuntary movement, stuttering, dysarthria, amnesia/memory loss, histrionic movements, libido increase or decrease, paranoia, shakiness, Parkinsonism, and irritability

Cardiovascular System

Edema, palpitations, phlebitis/thrombophlebitis, cyanosis, premature ventricular contraction, bradycardia, and nose bleed

Gastrointestinal System

Abdominal distention, gastroenteritis, rectal bleeding, nervous stomach, abnormal stools, hematemesis, gastric ulcer, bitter taste, and eructation

Urogenital System

Dysmenorrhea, impotence, breast pain/discomfort, and vaginal itch/infection

Autonomic Nervous System

Numbness, polydipsia, hot flashes, dry throat, and mydriasis

Integumentary (skin)

Pruritus, pallor, eczema, erythema, bruise, dermatitis, petechiae, and urticaria

Musculoskeletal System

Twitching and joint pain

Respiratory System

Coughing, pneumonia/pneumonia-like symptoms, rhinorrhea, hyperventilation, wheezing, bronchitis, laryngitis, and sneezing

Hemic and Lymphatic System

Anemia and leukocytosis

Miscellaneous

Chills/chills with fever, malaise, appetite increase, ear disorder, hypothermia, eyelid disorder, bloodshot eyes, and nystagmus

Postmarketing Clinical Experience

Postmarketing experience has shown an adverse experience profile similar to that presented above. Voluntary reports of adverse events temporally associated with clozapine not mentioned above that have been received since market introduction and that may have no causal relationship with the drug include the following:

Central Nervous System

Delirium, EEG abnormal, exacerbation of psychosis, myoclonus, overdose, paresthesia, possible mild cataplexy, status epilepticus, and obsessive compulsive symptoms

Cardiovascular System

Atrial or ventricular fibrillation and periorbital edema

Gastrointestinal System

Acute pancreatitis, dysphagia, fecal impaction, intestinal obstruction/paralytic ileus, and salivary gland swelling

Hepatobiliary System

Cholestasis, hepatitis, jaundice

Hepatic System

Cholestasis

Urogenital System

Acute interstitial nephritis and priapism

Integumentary (skin)

Hypersensitivity reactions: photosensitivity, vasculitis, erythema multiforme, and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders

Hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and new onset diabetes

Musculoskeletal System

Myasthenic syndrome and rhabdomyolysis

Respiratory System

Aspiration, pleural effusion, and pneumonia and lower respiratory tract infection which may be fatal

Hemic and Lymphatic System

Deep-vein thrombosis, elevated hemoglobin/hematocrit, ESR increased, pulmonary embolism, sepsis, thrombocytosis, and thrombocytopenia

Vision Disorders

Narrow-angle glaucoma

Miscellaneous

Creatine phosphokinase elevation, hyperglycemia, hyperuricemia, hyponatremia, and weight loss

Extrapyramidal Symptoms

Dystonia

Class effect: Symptoms of dystonia, prolonged abnormal contractions of muscle groups, may occur in susceptible individuals during the first few days of treatment. Dystonic symptoms include: spasm of the neck muscles, sometimes progressing to tightness of the throat, swallowing difficulty, difficulty breathing, and/or protrusion of the tongue. While these symptoms can occur at low doses, they occur more frequently and with greater severity with high potency and at higher doses of first generation antipsychotic drugs. An elevated risk of acute dystonia is observed in males and younger age groups. Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is associated with a low incidence of dystonia. (See WARNINGS, Tardive Dyskinesia.)

DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE

Physical and psychological dependence have not been reported or observed in patients taking clozapine.

OVERDOSAGE

Human Experience

The most commonly reported signs and symptoms associated with clozapine overdose are: altered states of consciousness, including drowsiness, delirium, and coma; tachycardia; hypotension; respiratory depression or failure; and hypersalivation. Aspiration pneumonia and cardiac arrhythmias have also been reported. Seizures have occurred in a minority of reported cases. Fatal overdoses have been reported with clozapine, generally at doses above 2500mg. There have also been reports of patients recovering from overdoses well in excess of 4g.

Management of Overdose

Establish and maintain an airway; ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Activated charcoal, which may be used with sorbitol, may be as or more effective than emesis or lavage and should be considered in treating overdosage. Cardiac and vital signs monitoring are recommended along with general symptomatic and supportive measures. Additional surveillance should be continued for several days because of the risk of delayed effects. Avoid epinephrine and derivatives when treating hypotension and quinidine and procainamide when treating cardiac arrhythmia.

There are no specific antidotes for FazaClo (clozapine, USP). Forced diuresis, dialysis, hemoperfusion, and exchange transfusion are unlikely to be of benefit.

In managing overdosage, the physician should consider the possibility of multiple-drug involvement.

Up-to-date information about the treatment of overdose can often be obtained from a certified Regional Poison Control Center. Telephone numbers of certified Regional Poison Control Centers are listed in the Physicians’ Desk Reference, a registered trademark of Thomson PDR.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia

Administration

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) rapidly disintegrates after placement in the mouth. The tablets may be chewed if desired. The FazaClo (clozapine, USP) Orally Disintegrating Tablet dispensed in a blister should be left in the unopened blister until time of use. The orally disintegrating tablet should not be pushed through the blister foil. Just prior to use, peel the foil from the blister and gently remove the orally disintegrating tablet. After removing the tablet from either the blister or the bottle, immediately place the tablet in the mouth and allow to disintegrate and swallow with saliva, or chew as desired. No water is needed to take FazaClo (clozapine, USP).

Upon initiation of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy, up to a 1-week supply of additional FazaClo (clozapine, USP) orally disintegrating tablets may be provided to the patient to be held for emergencies (eg, weather, holidays).

Initial Treatment

It is recommended that treatment with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) begin with a 12.5 mg dose once or twice daily. The dosing should be continued with daily dosage increments of 25-50mg/day, if well-tolerated, to achieve a target dose of 300-450 mg/day by the end of 2weeks. Subsequent dosage increments should be made no more than once or twice weekly, in increments not to exceed 100 mg. Cautious titration and a divided dosage schedule are necessary to minimize the risks of hypotension, seizure, and sedation.

In the multicenter study that provides primary support for the effectiveness of clozapine in patients resistant to standard drug treatment for schizophrenia, patients’ doses were titrated during the first 2 weeks up to a maximum dose of 500 mg/day on a t.i.d. basis. Subsequent dosage increments were then dosed in a total daily dose range of 100-900 mg/day on a t.i.d. basis, with clinical response and adverse effects as guides to correct dosing.

Therapeutic Dose Adjustment

Daily dosing should continue on a divided basis as an effective and tolerable dose level is sought. While many patients may respond adequately at doses between 300-600 mg/day, it may be necessary to raise the dose to the 600-900 mg/day range to obtain an acceptable response. (Note: In the multicenter study providing the primary support for the superiority of clozapine in treatment-resistant patients, the mean and median clozapine doses were both approximately 600mg/day.)

Because of the possibility of increased adverse reactions at higher doses, particularly seizures, patients should ordinarily be given adequate time to respond to a given dose level before escalation to a higher dose is contemplated. Clozapine can cause EEG changes, including the occurrence of spike and wave complexes. It lowers the seizures threshold in a dose-dependent manner and may induce myoclonic jerks or generalized seizures. These symptoms may be likely to occur with rapid-dose increase and in patients with preexisting epilepsy. In this case, the dose should be reduced and, if necessary, anticonvulsant treatment initiated.

Dosing should not exceed 900 mg/day.

Because of the significant risk of agranulocytosis and seizure, events which both present a continuing risk over time, the extended treatment of patients failing to show an acceptable level of clinical response should ordinarily be avoided.

Maintenance Treatment

While the maintenance effectiveness of clozapine in schizophrenia is still under study, the effectiveness of maintenance treatment is well established for many other drugs used to treat schizophrenia. It is recommended that responding patients be continued on FazaClo (clozapine, USP), but at the lowest level needed to maintain remission. Because of the significant risk associated with the use of FazaClo (clozapine, USP), patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.

Discontinuation of Treatment

In the event of planned termination of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) therapy, gradual reduction in dose is recommended over a 1-2 week period. However, should a patient’s medical condition require abrupt discontinuation (eg, leukopenia), the patient should be carefully observed for the recurrence of psychotic symptoms and symptoms related to cholinergic rebound such as headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Reinitiation of Treatment in Patients Previously Discontinued

When restarting patients who have had even a brief interval off FazaClo (clozapine, USP) (ie, 2days or more since the last dose), it is recommended that treatment be reinitiated with a 12.5 mg dose once or twice daily. (See WARNINGS.) If that dose is well tolerated, it may be feasible to titrate patients back to a therapeutic dose more quickly than is recommended for initial treatment. However, any patient who has previously experienced respiratory or cardiac arrest with initial dosing but was then able to be successfully titrated to a therapeutic dose should be retitrated with extreme caution after even 24 hours of discontinuation.

Certain additional precautions seem prudent when reinitiating treatment. The mechanisms underlying clozapine-induced adverse reactions are unknown. It is conceivable, however, that reexposure of a patient might enhance the risk of an untoward event’s occurrence and increase its severity. Such phenomena, for example, occur when immune-mediated mechanisms are responsible. Consequently, during the reinitiation of treatment, additional caution is advised. Patients discontinued for WBC counts below 2000/mm3 or an ANC below 1000/mm3 must not be restarted on FazaClo (clozapine, USP). (See WARNINGS.)

Reducing The Risk Of Recurrent Suicidal Behavior In Patients With Schizophrenia Or Schizoaffective Disorder

The dosage and administration recommendations outlined above regarding the use of FazaClo (clozapine, USP) in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia should also be followed when treating patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder at risk for recurrent suicidal behavior.

The InterSePT™ study demonstrated the efficacy of clozapine in the treatment of patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder at risk for recurrent suicidal behavior where the mean daily dose was about 300 mg (range 12.5 to 900 mg).

Patients previously treated with other antipsychotics were cross-titrated to clozapine over a one-month interval; the dose of the previous antipsychotic was gradually decreased simultaneously with a gradual increase in clozapine dose over the first month of the study. Patients on depot antipsychotic medication began clozapine after one full dosing interval since the last injection.

Recommendations to Reduce the Risk of Recurrent Suicidal Behavior in Patients Who Otherwise Previously Responded to Treatment of Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder with Another Antipsychotic Medication

The results of the InterSePT™ study demonstrated that, for a two-year treatment period, the probability of a suicide attempt or a hospitalization due to imminent suicide risk is stable at approximately 24% after one year of treatment with clozapine (Figure 1, Clinical Trial Data Section). A course of treatment with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) of at least two years is recommended in order to maintain the reduction of risk for suicidal behavior. After two years, it is recommended that the patient’s risk of suicidal behavior be assessed. If the physician’s assessment indicates that a significant risk for suicidal behavior is still present, treatment with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be continued. Thereafter, the decision to continue treatment with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) should be revisited at regular intervals, based on thorough assessments of the patient’s risk for suicidal behavior during treatment. If the physician determines that the patient is no longer at risk for suicidal behavior, treatment with FazaClo (clozapine, USP) may be discontinued (see recommendations above regarding discontinuation of treatment), and treatment of the underlying disorder with an antipsychotic medication to which the patient has previously responded may be resumed.

HOW SUPPLIED

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is available as 12.5, 25, 100, 150, and 200 mg round, yellow, orally disintegrating tablets packaged in bottles. FazaClo (clozapine, USP) is also available as 25,100, 150, and 200 mg tablets packaged in blisters.

FazaClo (clozapine, USP) Orally Disintegrating Tablets

12.5 mg

1/4-inch diameter tablet debossed with “A05” on one side.

Bottles of 100: 100 tablets in an HDPE bottle with child-resistant cap ................ NDC No.18860-101-10

25 mg

5/16-inch diameter tablet debossed with “A06” on one side.

Bottles of 100: 100 tablets in an HDPE bottle with child-resistant cap ................. NDC No.18860-102-10

Cartons of 48 for Institutional Use Only: 8 cards, 6 non child-resistant
blisters per card ............................................................................................................ NDC No.18860-102-01

100 mg

1/2-inch diameter tablet debossed with “A08” on one side.

Bottles of 100: 100 tablets in an HDPE bottle with child-resistant cap ................... NDC No.18860-104-10

150 mg

9/16-inch diameter tablet debossed with “A09” on one side.

Bottles of 100: 100 tablets in an HDPE bottle with child-resistant cap ................... NDC No.18860-105-10

200 mg

5/8-inch diameter tablet debossed with “A10” on one side.

Bottles of 100: 100 tablets in an HDPE bottle with child-resistant cap ................... NDC No.18860-106-10

Store and Dispense

Store FazaClo (clozapine, USP) at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F). (See USP Controlled Room Temperature.) Protect from moisture.
---------------------------------------------
产地国家: 美国
原产地英文商品名:
FazaClo Orally Disintegrating Tablets 12.5mg/Tablets 100tabs
原产地英文药品名:
clozapine, USP
中文参考商品译名:
FAZACLO崩解片 12.5毫克/片 100片/盒
中文参考药品译名:
氯氮平
生产厂家英文名:
Azur Pharma, Inc

---------------------------------------------
产地国家: 美国
原产地英文商品名:
FazaClo Orally Disintegrating Tablets 25mg/Tablets 100tabs
原产地英文药品名:
clozapine, USP
中文参考商品译名:
FAZACLO崩解片 25毫克/片 100片/盒
中文参考药品译名:
氯氮平
生产厂家英文名:
Azur Pharma, Inc

---------------------------------------------
产地国家: 美国
原产地英文商品名:
FazaClo Orally Disintegrating Tablets 100mg/Tablets 100tabs
原产地英文药品名:
clozapine, USP
中文参考商品译名:
FAZACLO崩解片 100毫克/片 100片/盒
中文参考药品译名:
氯氮平
生产厂家英文名:
Azur Pharma, Inc

---------------------------------------------
产地国家: 美国
原产地英文商品名:
FazaClo Orally Disintegrating Tablets 150mg/Tablets 100tabs
原产地英文药品名:
clozapine, USP
中文参考商品译名:
FAZACLO崩解片 150毫克/片 100片/盒
中文参考药品译名:
氯氮平
生产厂家英文名:
Azur Pharma, Inc

---------------------------------------------
产地国家: 美国
原产地英文商品名:
FazaClo Orally Disintegrating Tablets 200mg/Tablets 100tabs
原产地英文药品名:
clozapine, USP
中文参考商品译名:
FAZACLO崩解片 200毫克/片 100片/盒
中文参考药品译名:
氯氮平
生产厂家英文名:
Azur Pharma, Inc

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