Clozaril atypical antipsychotic medications

Although we include clozapine as a newer atypical antipsychotic medication, it does have a long history and in some texts may be listed as a traditional antipsychotic. Known by the brand name Clozaril, clozapine was originally synthesized in 1957 and in 1960 was one of the first antipsychotics released on the European market (Hippius, 1989). It was believed to be more successful than the typical antipsychotics because it did not seem to have the same negative side-effect profiles. Years later, eight documented cases of death were attributed to infections secondary to clozapine-induced agranulocytosis, and the product was withdrawn from unrestricted use (Davis Casper, 1977). Based on later studies that supported the success of clozapine with strict monitoring for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, the FDA approved it in 1990 (Barnes McEv-edy, 1996). 

Several newer antipsychotic medications have been developed that seem different or atypical, compared with their predecessors. These agents include clozapine (Clozaril), risperidone (Risperdal), and several others listed in Tables 8-1 and 8-2. Although there is some debate about what exactly defines these drugs as atypical, the most distinguishing feature is that they have a much better side-effect profile, including a decreased risk of producing extrapyramidal (motor) side effects.17,45,57... 

Atypical or nontraditional antipsychotic medications have fewer movement symptoms than the typical antipsychotics. Examples of these medications include (see Table 7.3) clozapine (Clozaril), risperidone (Risperdal), sertindole (Serlect), olanzapine (Zyprexa) and quentiapine (Seroquel). These medications have gained popularity because they appear to have lower EPS proflles and they help individuals to think more clearly and follow directions better, to learn new facts and master new skills, and to interpret emotion more accurately (Lambert, 1998). 

The client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine (Clozaril), an atypical antipsychotic. Which information should the nurse discuss with the client concerning this medication ... 

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