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Optimizing co-prescription of clozapine and antiseizure medications: a systematic review and expert recommendations for clinical practice.

Hélène VerdouxClélia QuilesJose de Leon
Published in: Expert opinion on drug metabolism & toxicology (2024)
VPA add-on to clozapine is associated with a high risk of serious ADR (myocarditis, neutropenia, pneumonia) mostly explained by complex time-dependent drug-drug interactions. The initial inhibitory effects on clozapine metabolism require slow titration to avoid immuno-allergic reactions. After the titration period, VPA has mainly inductive effects on clozapine metabolism that are more marked in smokers requiring therapeutic drug monitoring. Lamotrigine and topiramate add-on may be recommended as the first-line treatment for clozapine-related seizures, but there is limited evidence regarding the efficacy of this strategy for clozapine-resistant psychotic symptoms. Carbamazepine should not be co-prescribed with clozapine because of its potential for agranulocytosis and for inducing clozapine metabolism.
Keyphrases
  • clinical practice
  • emergency department
  • drug induced
  • extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
  • mechanical ventilation