Clozapine IM and Aggression in Schizophrenic Patients

Overview

Aggressive, persistent aggression and impulsive behavior are frequently observed in schizophrenic patients. According to some researchers "more than 50% of all psychiatric patients and 10% of schizophrenic patients show aggressive symptoms varying from threatening behavior and agitation to assault"(1). It is a common cause of psychiatric admission and is a therapeutic issue. The treatment of these symptoms is a clinical problem for both patients and staff. Violent behavior, a major detrimental factor in stigmatization of the mentally ill, also poses physical danger for the patients themselves. Current pharmacotherapy of pathologic aggression involves the use of multiple agents (typical and atypical antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, mood stabilizers, beta-blockers, antiandrogenic hormones, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) on empiric basis, with varying degrees of response (2-6). Unfortunately, these approaches lead to numerous side effects. Poor or noncompliance with pharmacotherapy makes it difficult to choose the appropriate preparation. Currently, typical neuroleptics are still the first choice in treating acute aggressive symptoms, while risperidone and olanzapine could be alternatives (5-7). Typical depot neuroleptics should be considered in cases where medication compliance is a problem. Most clinical information on treating of aggression has been collected about atypical neuroleptics, particularly regarding clozapine. Clozapine is indicated in psychotic state and/or in drug-resistant schizophrenic patients. According to the FDA - it is the drug of choice in suicidal and aggressive patients, due-to psychotic state. It was found helpful in nearly 30% of resistant schizophrenic patients. Concerning the parenteral administration of clozapine - very little data is available today. This study aims to investigate efficacy and safety (psychopathology, and side effects) of parenteral clozapine in treatment of aggressive behavior in schizophrenic patients in a double-blind trial.