ATYPICAL NEUROLEPTIC CLOZAPINE (AZALEPTIN): SPECTRUM OF THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS AND A REPEATED EVALUATION OF ITS EFFICACY IN THE TREATMENT OF SCHIZOPHRENIA
This article presents an analytical review of literature and the authors own data concerning the efficacy of clozapine in the treatment of schizophrenia. It starts with the history of this medication coming into clinical practice, and the description of its neurochemical activity spectrum and its mechanism of action. The central discussion is focused on the profile of therapeutic effects of clozapine, its antipsychotic properties and specific characteristics. Special attention is paid to comparison of clozapine vs. other neuroleptics (both typical and atypical). The author also discusses the issue of a wider use of clozapine in the treatment of schizophrenia.