Clozapine: Gold standard treatment for refractory schizophrenia: Now or never?

Abstract

Many patients eligible to receive clozapine do not receive it, either because they are concerned about or have previously experienced adverse effects, or because of a reluctance to undergoing mandatory blood monitoring. This chapter will combine research evidence and practical clinical experience to offer advice on improving the acceptability and tolerability of clozapine. It will cover common but troublesome problems such as hypersalivation and sedation, as well as the approach to re-challenging patients who have previously experienced suspected blood dyscrasias or cardiovascular complications of clozapine.