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International trends in clozapine use: a study in 17 countries
C J Bachmann1, L Aagaard2, M Bernardo3
1Freelance Researcher, Marburg, Germany.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|May 15, 2017
Summary
Clozapine use has increased globally but remains underutilized in many nations. International prescribing patterns vary significantly, highlighting the need for interventions to improve clozapine access.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
- Global Health
Background:
- Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic for treatment-resistant schizophrenia.
- Evidence suggests clozapine is significantly underutilized worldwide.
- International variations in clozapine prescribing are suspected but not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess international trends in clozapine utilization.
- To analyze clozapine prescribing patterns across different countries.
- To provide a global perspective on clozapine use.
Main Methods:
- A repeated cross-sectional study design was employed.
- Data from 2005 to 2014 were analyzed from 17 countries.
- Standardized criteria were used for data analysis.
Main Results:
- Clozapine use increased in most studied countries between 2005 and 2014.
- Significant international variations in prevalence were observed in 2014, with Finland and New Zealand showing highest use and Japan the lowest.
- Utilization varied by age group, with highest use in 40-59-year-olds in most countries.
Conclusions:
- Despite an overall increase, clozapine remains underutilized in many countries.
- Significant disparities in clozapine utilization patterns exist internationally.
- Further research is needed to develop interventions promoting wider clozapine use.
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