Effects of Clozapine on the Gut: Cross-Sectional Study of Delayed Gastric Emptying and Small and Large Intestinal Dysmotility.

Clozapine is associated with significant multi-regional gastrointestinal dysfunction. This is relevant when considering the relationship between clozapine use and conditions such as gastroparesis, choking, aspiration pneumonia, constipation, ileus and intestinal pseudo-obstruction. While the constipating properties of clozapine are now well recognised, this study shows a high degree of vigilance is required for both lower and upper gastrointestinal dysmotility in people taking this antipsychotic.