Refractory schizophrenia: what works pharmacologically?

1. Many patients with refractory schizophrenia remain undertreated and are at great risk for serious consequences of their illness, up to and including suicide. 2. Clozaril is the only antipsychotic medication proven to be effective in treating refractory schizophrenia. It is particularly effective in reducing violence associated with assaults and suicide. 3. Nurses can be very instrumental in working with resistant systems, treating clinicians, and patients by recommending Clozaril therapy for refractory schizophrenia.