New research shows that the risk of moderate and severe neutropenia associated with clozapine therapy is low in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. None of the nearly 1000 patients in the study developed severe neutropenia, and rates of moderate and mild neutropenia were also low. The findings suggest that current hematologic monitoring requirements for clozapine should be reconsidered to improve access to this effective treatment. Experts suggest easing federal restrictions on clozapine to increase its utilization. Mandatory blood testing requirements have been identified as a significant barrier to prescribing clozapine, leading to delays in treatment and potentially preventable tragedies.
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New Clozapine Data Suggest FDA Should Ease Restrictions
