How is Zyprexa different from Clozaril?
Zyprexa differs from Clozaril (Clozapine) in side effects. Zyprexa does not cause seizures or agranulocytosis, a serious deficiency of a type of white blood cells that could be fatal. Although Clozaril works very well to treat schizophrenia, it requires a weekly blood draw and weekly prescription refills because of the monitoring for agranulocytosis. Weekly blood drawing and refills are not necessary with Zyprexa. Zyprexa also differs from Clozaril in that it does not cause excessive drooling. Zyprexa may produce more extrapyramidal side effects (tremor, akathisia, and muscle stiffness) than Clozaril, however. Zyprexa has not been directly compared to Clozaril in clinical studies in patients, so it is not now known which drug will be better for certain patients with schizophrenia. Side Effects of Zyprexa Older antipsychotic medications have been difficult for patients to continue to take because they cause side effects like weight gain, fatigue, stiff body movement, and blurred vision.
