Dimensions of outcome with clozapine.
Various outcome measures following clozapine administration to neuroleptic-resistant schizophrenic patients are considered. The importance of a multidimensional perspective is emphasised. There was significant improvement in positive symptoms, some negative symptoms, quality of life, some types of cognitive function (e.g. semantic memory), extrapyramidal function, and tardive dyskinesia. Readmission to hospital, and family burden were markedly reduced, which achieved significant savings in the cost of treatment. Compliance with clozapine and weekly blood testing can be achieved in the majority of treatment-resistant cases. These benefits may occur independently of each other.
Meltzer
H Y
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University Hospitals of Cleveland, OH 44106-5000.
D000328:Adult; D003024:Clozapine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004409:Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010359:Patient Readmission; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011788:Quality of Life; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D003024:Clozapine