Abstract: Clozapine is the most effective medication for treatment refractory schizophrenia (TRS). However, there is a significant burden of adverse drug reactions. Safe and quality prescribing of clozapine requires a fine balance between management of psychotic symptoms and amelioration of the adverse drug reactions our consumers bear.
Objectives:
To provide updates regarding:
an understanding of the use of clozapine among people with complex and difficult to treat psychosis
increased awareness of the management strategies for serious clozapine adverse effects, notably constipation, pneumonia and myocarditis
guidance on how to use metformin at the time of clozapine initiation for prevention of weight gain.
Methods: The presenters will present clinical data and review the current literature on quality and safe use of clozapine. We will focus on complex psychosis, management of adverse drug effects and how to prevent clozapine-associated weight gain.
Findings: Clozapine is significantly more effective than other anti-psychotics for treatment of TRS; however, practitioners must be vigilant for adverse drug reactions, notably constipation, pneumonia and constipation, and be proactive in prevention of weight gain to reduce the risk of cardiometabolic illness.
Conclusions: At the end of this session, practitioners will be proficient in the quality and safe use of clozapine.