Atypical Antipsychotic
Brand of Clozapine
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Clozapine is a strong antipsychotic medicine that works by balancing certain chemicals in the brain (like dopamine and serotonin) to help control thoughts, mood, and behavior. It is known in Nigeria under brand names like Leponex and Xycloza-100.
Blocks dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways, reducing psychotic symptoms and suicidal ideation in treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Additionally, antagonizes muscarinic and alpha-adrenergic receptors, contributing to its unique efficacy in patients unresponsive to conventional antipsychotics.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Your doctor will start you on a very low dose — usually half of a 25 mg tablet (12.5 mg) once or twice a day — and slowly increase it over several weeks. The usual effective dose is between 200 mg and 450 mg per day, divided into 2 or 3 doses. You can take it with or without food. Never increase or decrease the dose on your own — always follow your doctor's instructions exactly.
If you miss a dose by just a few hours, take it as soon as you remember. However, if you have missed clozapine for more than 2 days (48 hours), do NOT restart it on your own — contact your doctor immediately because you may need to start again from a low dose to avoid dangerous side effects.
This medicine requires mandatory regular blood tests (usually every week at first, then monthly) to check your white blood cell count — never skip these tests as they can save your life. Only buy from a registered pharmacy with a valid prescription — do not buy from roadside vendors or open markets, as fake versions of this drug can be very dangerous. Do not stop taking clozapine suddenly without your doctor's guidance, as this can cause serious withdrawal symptoms and a return of psychotic episodes.
Avoid alcohol completely — it increases drowsiness and can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure. Be careful with medicines like tramadol or codeine as combining them with clozapine can cause severe breathing problems. Smoking cigarettes affects how your body processes clozapine — if you start or stop smoking, tell your doctor as your dose may need to change.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Clozapine with your other drugs?
Clozapine is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can affect the baby, so consult your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in cars. Keep the medicine in its original container, away from moisture, and always keep it out of the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Genuine packaging for Leponex 25 mg Tablets
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NAFDAC Number
04-7416
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