Clozapine Use in Early-Onset Schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia in the pediatric population poses unique challenges and has been associated with poorer prognosis. Early intervention and symptom stability are paramount. There are several antipsychotic medications with U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, but when treatment resistance occurs, clozapine is an option that has demonstrated superiority in effectiveness. Due to side effect burden and monitoring requirements, clozapine remains an alternative to other pharmacotherapy options that have failed rather than a mainstay of treatment. Clinicians, nurses, family members, and others involved in pediatric mental health care must be knowledgeable about this option and how to maintain safety with its use. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61(2), 6-8.].