For which patient group is clozapine mainly intended?

Clozapine is primarily intended for patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. This specific category of patients is characterized by their lack of adequate response to at least two antipsychotic drugs from different classes. Clozapine has a unique mechanism of action that differs from other antipsychotics, making it effective for individuals who have not responded to standard treatments. It can significantly reduce the symptoms of schizophrenia, including both positive and negative symptoms.

Additionally, clozapine is known for its potential to lower the risk of suicide in patients with schizophrenia, which adds to its importance in this particular population. The monitoring of patients on clozapine is essential due to the risk of agranulocytosis, a potentially serious side effect that requires regular blood tests to ensure safety.

In contrast, the other groups mentioned do not align with the main indications for clozapine use. For first-time schizophrenia patients, other antipsychotics are typically used initially. Patients experiencing severe anxiety would not be candidates for clozapine, as it is not indicated for anxiety disorders. Lastly, while patients with acute psychotic episodes may benefit from antipsychotics, clozapine is not the first-line treatment for such situations and is usually reserved for