Clozapine for treatment-resistant schizophrenia: The case for timely and appropriate use

This position statement outlines the strong evidence supporting clozapine as the most effective treatment for individuals with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) and the only antipsychotic recommended by evidence-based national guidelines for this condition. It highlights that early initiation of clozapine after a TRS diagnosis is associated with better clinical outcomes, but that, despite this, clozapine remains underprescribed and is often started later than recommended, potentially limiting its benefits. 

This document sets out practical, clinical and system-level strategies to support the appropriate and timely use of clozapine in patients with TRS, with the aim of improving clinical outcomes and reducing avoidable delays in care. It discusses clinician-, patient- and service-level barriers that contribute to delays in the appropriate use of clozapine.