When my daughter started clozapine I knew that it would be different to taking other antipsychotics. Fortunately my daughter was able to start clozapine at home, rather than in a hospital setting and I knew I needed to educate myself as much as possible about this medication.
I have found that the UK is severely lacking in providing detailed information regarding the use of clozapine for carers. Thankfully I found the Team Daniel Running for Recovery from Mental illness facebook page and website.
Dr Robert Laitman and Dr Ann Mandel have also written a book Meaningful Recovery from Schizophrenia and Serious Mental Illness with Clozapine which has been a great source of information, helping me understand how clozapine should be used correctly.
The facebook page provides a wealth of information on using clozapine and answers many queries on side effects and what to expect from using this medication. They have given me so much HOPE and optimism that eventually my daughter will have a meaningful recovery.
Dr Laitman provides a clear protocol on clozapine initiation, how important it is to titrate up slowly and medications that can be used to minimise the side effects.
Unfortunately due to guidelines and the outdated concerns about the use of clozapine, I have struggled to get his protocol followed in the UK, but that is not to say that it can't be changed and I hope that UK guidelines and procedures will be updated and open to following Dr Laitmans methods which have given so many people their lives back.
I am truly grateful for the help, support and information they provide to so many people worldwide.
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