Clozapine-withdrawal catatonia

Abstract

Background: Case reports in which abrupt clozapine discontinuation led to a return of psychosis, autonomic instability, or catatonia have been previously presented in the literature.

Objective: The authors report on symptom presentation and resolution in a case of abrupt withdrawal of clozapine medication.

Method: The authors describe the condition and history of the patient, a 49-year-old woman with schizophrenia, the medical support she received, and the re-initiation of her clozapine medication.

Results: Symptoms of catatonia and autonomic instability resolved by Day 4 of treatment.

Conclusion: Patients and their caregivers need to be educated about the effects of abrupt cessation of clozapine administration.