Denzapine (Clozapine) is an atypical antipsychotic agent used in the treatment of schizophrenia and is particularly useful in patients who are resistant to other therapies.
Denzapine improves both positive and negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia, whilst being relatively free of extra-pyramidal side effects compared to traditional antipsychotic agents.
However, along with its benefits, Denzapine is known to cause neutropoenia / agranulocytosis. This is a serious condition characterised by a low level of neutrophils, which may affect the patient’s ability to fight infection.
Whilst only 3-4% of patients may be affected, it is not possible to predict who will be affected. All patients must therefore have their blood monitored regularly throughout the treatment.
To maximise patient safety, Merz Pharma have set up the Denzapine Monitoring Service (DMS) to ensure that all patients are effectively monitored. Before treatment with Denzapine can be initiated, patients must be enrolled with the DMS and have regular blood samples throughout.
Our monitoring service is fully computerised with an on-call support service for patient monitoring and medical information. In addition, we also have a Consultant Haematologist on-call.
|