Clozapine is a unique antipsychotic medication primarily used for the treatment of schizophrenia, particularly in cases where other medications have failed. It is known for its effectiveness in reducing the risk of suicidal behavior in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Clozapine works by affecting various neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, including those for dopamine and serotonin, which helps in balancing mood and thought processes. Unlike many other antipsychotics, it has a lower risk of causing extrapyramidal side effects (movement disorders). However, clozapine requires regular blood monitoring due to a risk of a potentially serious side effect called agranulocytosis, a decrease in white blood cells.
