Clozapine--pharmacokinetic investigations and biochemical effects in man

Clozapine with its unique pharmacological profile was investigated in different studies in order to elucidate its clinical-biochemical effects. Acute pharmacokinetic data showed a wide interindividual range with a mean halflife time of 6.0 h. The excretion pattern of catecholamines and their metabolites as well as hormone secretion were influenced in a different way. After 30 days of treatment, psychotic symptoms had markedly improved. However, only weak correlations were found to plasma levels. Side effects, such as sedation and orthostatic dysregulation, adapted and normalized during treatment. CSF-MHPG, CSF-5-HIAA decreased, CSF-HVA increased after 20 days of treatment indicating that the dopamine as well as the serotonin and noradrenaline systems are affected by Clozapine.