> Still have some negative symptoms though, and my doctor told me about Clozaril. Supposed to help a lot with negative symptoms. The only drawback to this med is you have to get regular blood tests.
Lao,
Let me say first that I always enjoy reading your posts and generally find what you have to say to be helpful and informative. I think that the information that you share with those of us who read messages on the Psycho-Babble alternative forum about medications and supplements is worth reading, and I like to read about the various supplements that you've found to be helpful in the treatment of your psychiatric condition.
I must, however, disagree with your statement that getting regular blood tests is the only drawback of taking Clozaril (clozapine). In addition to being associated with a 1-2 percent incidence of agranulocytosis (which, as you may know, is the reason why regular blood monitoring is required for patients taking Clozaril), Clozaril increases the risk of seizures and diabetes, and also comes with side effects that could potentially include fast or irregular heartbeat, myocarditis, and orthostatic hypotension. The full list of potential side effects from Clozaril is, of course, much longer, and patients considering taking Clozaril, yourself included, should be aware that such side effects are possible before they take the medication.
Here is a list of side effects associated with Clozaril (clozapine) use from drugs.com:
http://www.drugs.com/sfx/clozaril-side-effects.html
And here is some side-effect information from Clozaril's official Web site:
http://www.clozaril.com/info/about/side_effects.jsp
As you can see, the potential drawbacks of taking Clozaril (clozapine) are many, and although not everybody taking the medication is going to experience all of the side effects, it is my impression that most (if not all) individuals taking Clozaril have more drawbacks to contend with than just the regular blood tests.
T.
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this signature | Show by default | Change to hide (next time)Conditions:
* chronic fatigue, hypersomnia, and related symptoms
* schizoaffective disorder
Taking Abilify, niacin, vit D
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