Clozapine and speech dysfluency: Two case reports

Abstract

Aims and method: We describe two patients, both diagnosed with psychotic illnesses, who developed stuttering while being treated with clozapine. Results: In both patients the stuttering was severe and significantly impaired progress towards recovery. Deviant speech dimensions and voice quality were consistent with dysarthria and dystonia. Clinical implications: Patients who develop abnormal electroencephalogram activity and those who have a family or personal history of stuttering might be at increased risk of developing speech problems with clozapine. Speech dysfluency might be a consequence of clozapine's action in lowering the seizure threshold. Potential management strategies include the use of sodium valproate and changing the type of antipsychotic.