Constipation is common with clozapine and can progress to serious bowel obstruction. Patients with psychosis may not volunteer it. A direct question about frequency and straining at each visit, with early treatment, is part of routine clozapine care.
- Ask about stool frequency, straining and abdominal discomfort.
- Treat constipation early rather than waiting for a complaint.
- Review other anticholinergic medicines the patient takes.
- Escalate new abdominal pain or distension promptly.
Why it matters
Gastrointestinal harm from clozapine is easily missed and avoidable.
Read the rest in the app
You have read your two free briefings this month. The app carries all 27 specialties, every morning, free — and this finding is waiting in it.
Scan to keep reading on your phone. No account needed to start.
Tomorrow morning, before your first patient
One edition a day for psychiatry, written by the desk, every claim tied to its paper. Six minutes.
Get the app — free