Successful Early Clozapine Trial in the Treatment of First-episode Schizophrenia: A Case Report

ABSTRACT

Clozapine remains the treatment of choice in refractory schizophrenia despite its various requirement to prescribe, such as mandatory blood monitoring program and various metabolic complication. Currently, clozapine is recommended only after two failed adequate antipsychotics trials. We report a case of a successful early clozapine trial in the treatment of first-episode schizophrenia patient, considering poor treatment response and repeated self-injurious behavior. This case highlights the efficacy of an early clozapine trial as a second-line treatment for first-episode schizophrenia in contrast to switching or combination treatment strategy.