Use of clozapine in primary care.

While clozapine represents a revolutionary advance in the treatment of schizophrenia, it carries with it a formidable side-effect profile. Agranulocytosis may indeed be life-threatening to a small number of patients. The nurse practitioner must be aware of this and other side effects in order to competently care for patients with psychiatric problems. It is also essential that there be a collaborative relationship between the nurse practitioner and a mental health provider. Only through appropriate consultation and referral will the needs of psychiatric patients be met in a timely and comprehensive manner.