Classics in chemical neuroscience: clozapine

ACS Chem Neurosci. 2013 Jul 17;4(7):1018-25. doi: 10.1021/cn400121z.

Abstract

Clozapine was the first true breakthrough in schizophrenia treatment since the discovery of chlorpromazine in 1950, effectively treating positive, negative, and some cognitive symptoms, as well as possessing unprecedented efficacy in treatment-resistant patients. Despite over 30 years of intense study, the precise molecular underpinnings that account for clozapine's unique efficacy remain elusive. In this Viewpoint, we will showcase the history and importance of clozapine to neuroscience in general, as well as for the treatment of schizophrenia, and review the synthesis, pharmacology, drug metabolism, and adverse events of clozapine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antipsychotic Agents / chemical synthesis
  • Antipsychotic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Clozapine / chemical synthesis
  • Clozapine / pharmacology
  • Clozapine / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Clozapine