What monitoring is essential when administering Clozaril?

When administering Clozaril (clozapine), monitoring white blood cell count is essential due to the risk of agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening side effect of the medication. Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic that can suppress bone marrow function, leading to a significant decrease in the number of white blood cells. Because individuals with low white blood cell counts are at a much higher risk for infections, regular monitoring helps to ensure patient safety and allows for prompt intervention if blood cell counts drop to dangerous levels.

This monitoring typically involves checking the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) weekly for the first six months of treatment and then every two weeks thereafter, per the established guidelines. This close observation helps clinicians take necessary actions, such as modifying dosages or discontinuing the medication altogether, to protect the patient's health.