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Q: Sister of a Schizophrenic

asked by: sisofschiz on December 18th, 2007

New User

Hi:
Recently my mother passed away and I moved out of state. I couldn't leave my older brother (43) and he has moved in with my family. I have a husband and 2 sons: 3months and 3years.
My brother takes 300mg of clozapine 2 times a day. He has some severe side effects that I have noticed: excessive drooling, sedation, memory loss, etc.
I feel like I have a third child at times. He has wet his bed twice. I am currently potty training my 3 year old son and I remind my brother as much as my son to go to the bathroom.
I am concerned about his memory. He is hesitant to drive anywhere. I literally drove him over and over to his day program before he felt comfortable to take himself. It basically is a straight ride from my house to his program. He does not want to venture off the route as he might get lost. I feel like a chauffeur, carting him to doctor appointments and stores.
He used to drive everywhere. When we are driving I ask him of places look familiar and he usually says no, even on roads we drive everyday. He doesn't seem to be able to concentrate and remember landmarks. is this b/c of the medication he is on?
I bought him a cell phone but he cannot remember how to use it.
He definitely has learning disabilities and is socially clueless at times. I love my brother but this is so hard.
I guess I am writing to you all b/c I have no one else to talk to who understand schizophrenia.
Anyone else taking clozapine? Dos it effect your memory?
Thanks for reading this.
judi

Replies(6)

Frangible

replied on December 28th, 2007

New User

According to the prescribing information, salivation is a frequent side effect (31% incidence) as is drowsiness/sedation (39%). Incontinence (1%) and memory loss (<1%) were listed as less frequent side effects.

Unfortunately it may be difficult to differentiate some of the side effects of the drug from some of the symptoms of schizophrenia, which impair memory and learning.

Ultimately this is probably something best discussed with his doctor, it may be that the dose of the medication could be too high or that another medication would work better, as in the dose titration section of the PI it notes that hypotension, seizure, and sedation are effects that careful dosing should minimize. 600mg appears to be a fairly standard dose, but there is a good deal of individual variation in response to psychotropic medication.

Reviewing his history and examining correlations between memory, sedation, etc and medication might also give you some clues.

Good luck.

woops

replied on January 11th, 2008

Experienced User

Do you think that you might get rid of him?
Try and put him somewhere or just completely kick him out one day?

It may be hard, but I think that you should stick by him and make sure he has a place to live, do you think that you can do that?

You shouldn't care so much about being sociable, that's rediculous.

Galaxy

replied on January 26th, 2008

Supporter

Are schizophrenics allowed to drive? Or is that a silly question? I know that here in the UK, my epileptic friend is not allowed to drive because he has approximately 3 seizures every two years.

Philo

replied on January 26th, 2008

Experienced User

No one's stopping me from driving, but I don't think I would do a good job. I will probably never drive out of concern for others. But I see posts on forums from people who are completely bonkers and they're still driving. This makes me wonder every time.

Fairy Godmother

replied on January 26th, 2008

Supporter

Hi Nat called me!

SISOFSCHIZ..........You sem to have a full plate on your hands. Do you not ahve other brothers or sisters who could help you out? This is not fair on your part, as you ahve a family of your own. I do understand this is your brother, but you can't possibly give 100% to your husband and chikdren when yo uahve to wrooy about a 43 year old "brother child". I would look into family and childrens services and explain hte situation to them. They can tell you what resources there are , its possible your borther could live ina group home and be 'independent", allowing him to feel like a normal individual. You could still have him come and visit you and your family. I know several families who are in this situation, and it has helped take a burden and strain off them and their own family situation. If he qualifies for a state check, then he could find a rehabilitation facility and have "his own" place. I hope things work out for you. I am so very sorry for your loss, as I recently loss my parents as well. Just grateful for my own family and friends......HUGS!

selah

replied on May 26th, 2009

New User

sis of a schizophrenic

sisofschiz...
I am too. My sis is 49. Does not drive, does not own a cell phone. These would have been difficult for her. Driving i believe her delusions would have driven her.. cell phone she would have called anyone that would listen including paramedics doctors, etc.. we all search for answers. She came to live with me for about 6 months after a behavioral health facility could no longer keep her after what they called getting her stabalized. They were going to release her into a homeless shelter..i could not let this happen..i drove 13 hours to get her. Living with a schizophrenic is a nightmare in and of itself. The love within us allows us to be stronger than most in coping. We were able to help my sis get the treatment she needed through pathways... psychologist, caseworker, psychiatrist. Social Services played a big part in making sure she had medicare , medicaid to cover any health expenses. Upon a little coaxing and reassurance that i would always be there for my sister.. my sister felt that she could go into residential care (adult day care-group home) This was a godsend.
We can provide love to those who need help, yet you cannot let go of yourself nor your family to accomplish this...they will feel the effects.. you have to love your brother enough to let go and help him to realize you will still be there..You have to let go so that your family will be complete again..
blessings and thoughts
selah

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