Journal Top Ten, Columns-Drugs & Supplements, January 2005

ARTICLE: "Adverse Cardiac Effects Associated With Clozapine"

SUMMARY: The objective was to review the published literature on serious adverse cardiac events associated with the atypical antipsychotic agent, clozapine, and to make recommendations for cardiac assessment of candidates for clozapine treatment and for monitoring of cardiac status after treatment is initiated. The authors reviewed the 30 case reports, case series, laboratory and clinical trials, data mining studies, and previous reviews identified by this search. The authors provide recommendations for assessing and monitoring cardiac status in patients prior to and after initiation …