Reduction of Suicidality During Clozapine Treatment of Neuroleptic-Resistant Schizophrenia: Impact on Risk-Benefit Assessment

Prior episodes of suicidality were assessed in 237 neuroleptic-responsive patients & 184 neuroleptic-resistant patients. 88 of the neuroleptic-resistant patients were treated with clozapine & prospectively evaluated for suicidality for periods of 6 months to 7 years. Clozapine treatment of the neuroleptic-resistant patients resulted in markedly less suicidality. The number of serious suicide attempts dropped from five to zero. Associated improvement was also seen in depression & hopelessness.