Clozapine Rechallenge or Continuation Despite Neutropenia, an Extended Follow-up of a Consecutive Quebec Case Series

  Clozapine is often prescribed for patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia, but its use is sometimes discontinued if it is suspected of inducing neutropenia. In this podcast, author Laurent Béchard discusses a consecutive case series published in the July-August 2022 issue of the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology assessing the continuation or reintroduction of this drug despite a neutropenia episode. In addition to suggesting further research to better define severe vs. moderate cases, Dr. Béchard proposes the use of pharmacovigilance tools to assess possible causes of neutropenia so clinicians can better determine if this highly effective antipsychotic should remain part of a patient's treatment plan.