Clozapine

Background

• Atypical antipsychotic
• Controls positive and negative symptoms of psychotic disorders
• Used for schizophrenia
• Off label use:
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Borderline personality disorder

Complications

• QT Prolongation
• Myocarditis
• Agranulocytosis in 1%–2% of patients during initial treatment 3 months
  • Highest ~3 months into treatment and then decreases
• Other potential side effects:
  • Dyslipidemia
  • Diabetes
  • Decreased seizure threshold
• "Other adverse cardiovascular and respiratory effects"
• "Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis"

Also See

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Borderline personality disorder
• Antipsychotic Medications

Sources

• Lange Poisoning and Drug Overdose, 6th Ed., p. 443-4, 160-162
• "Clozaril (Clozapine) drug description - FDA approved labeling for prescription drugs and medications at RxList". Rxlist.com. Retrieved 2008-10-09.