Clozapine: Atypical Origins & Clinical Pearls - PsyQ Episode 4
Description
This two-part episode takes a comprehensive look at clozapine, one of psychiatry's most impactful and complex medications. The two parts are (1) context, and (2) clinical pearls. We explore its challenging history, landmark clinical trials, unique pharmacology, practical prescribing guidelines, and the recent evolution of its regulatory oversight. Essential listening for psychiatry trainees and practicing clinicians.
Sources used:
1. Kane (1988). Clozapine for the Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenic: A Double-blind Comparison With Chlorpromazine. Arch Gen Psychiatry
2. Hippius (1999). A Historical Perspective of Clozapine. J Clin Psychiatry
3. Clozapine—serious adverse effects and clinical management. Chapter 12 in Antidotes to Toxins and Drugs.
4. FDA. Feb 2025 Information on Clozapine. FDA.gov.
5. Schneider-Thoma (2025). Efficacy of clozapine versus second-generation antipsychotics in people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis. Lancet Psychiatry
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