What does the Clozapine program monitor in patients?

What does the Clozapine program monitor in patients?

• A. Medication adherence
• B. WBC count and absolute neutrophil count
• C. Heart rate and blood pressure
• D. Kidney function tests

Answer: (B)

The Clozapine program specifically monitors white blood cell (WBC) counts and absolute neutrophil counts (ANC) in patients due to the risk of agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening side effect associated with the medication. Patients prescribed clozapine require regular blood monitoring because this medication can lead to a decrease in neutrophil levels, increasing the risk of infection. By closely monitoring these blood parameters, healthcare providers can ensure that patients remain safe while on clozapine therapy. If a patient's ANC falls below a certain threshold, clozapine treatment may need to be interrupted to prevent severe complications. This focused monitoring is a critical component of the Clozapine Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program, emphasizing the importance of balancing effective psychotropic treatment with patient safety.

The Clozapine program specifically monitors white blood cell (WBC) counts and absolute neutrophil counts (ANC) in patients due to the risk of agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening side effect associated with the medication. Patients prescribed clozapine require regular blood monitoring because this medication can lead to a decrease in neutrophil levels, increasing the risk of infection.

By closely monitoring these blood parameters, healthcare providers can ensure that patients remain safe while on clozapine therapy. If a patient's ANC falls below a certain threshold, clozapine treatment may need to be interrupted to prevent severe complications. This focused monitoring is a critical component of the Clozapine Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program, emphasizing the importance of balancing effective psychotropic treatment with patient safety.