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Clozapine use in geriatric patients- Challenges
Shiva Shanker Reddy Mukku1, P T Sivakumar1, Mathew Varghese1
1Geriatric Clinic & Services, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, 560029, India.
Asian Journal of Psychiatry
|March 13, 2018
Summary
Clozapine is a highly effective antipsychotic for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, but its use in elderly patients is limited due to side effects. This review examines clozapine
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Clinical Neuroscience
Background:
- Clozapine is a second-generation antipsychotic with a unique receptor profile.
- It is highly efficacious for psychotic disorders, particularly treatment-resistant schizophrenia.
- However, its use in elderly patients is infrequent due to adverse effects and tolerability concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature on clozapine use in the elderly population.
- To discuss the challenges and considerations for using clozapine in late-life psychiatric care.
Main Methods:
- This study employed a narrative review methodology.
- Literature search focused on clozapine, elderly patients, and treatment-resistant schizophrenia.
Main Results:
- There is a limited body of evidence regarding clozapine's efficacy and safety in older adults.
- Adverse effect profiles and tolerability present significant challenges for geriatric use.
- Specific dosing and monitoring strategies may be required for elderly patients.
Conclusions:
- Clozapine remains a crucial option for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, even in the elderly.
- Careful patient selection, dose titration, and vigilant monitoring are essential for safe and effective use in older adults.
- Further research is needed to optimize clozapine therapy for geriatric populations.
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