Clozapine and co-prescribed psychotropics: a short report
2008

Clozapine and Co-Prescribed Psychotropics

Sample size: 20 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Gupta Maneesh

Primary Institution: Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust

Hypothesis

Do most patients need only clozapine or do they still need co-prescribed medications for treatment of emergent symptoms or co-morbid mental health problems?

Conclusion

In a small sample of clozapine-treated patients, co-prescribed psychotropics are very common.

Supporting Evidence

  • Almost two thirds of patients on clozapine were also taking another psychotropic.
  • Eight individuals were on an antidepressant, seven on an antipsychotic, and five on valproate.
  • Co-prescription of psychotropics is common among patients treated with clozapine.

Takeaway

This study looked at patients taking clozapine and found that many of them also take other medications to help with their mental health.

Methodology

Patients on clozapine were identified from a prescription monitoring system and their medication records were reviewed.

Potential Biases

The author has accepted hospitality and honoraria from pharmaceutical companies.

Limitations

The report is limited in its extent of background information and past history that could be elicited.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1745-0179-4-11

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication