The paradox of clozapine in Black people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia

Abstract

Clozapine is currently the only licensed medication for treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). Ethnic inequalities in treatment with clozapine have been described extensively, particularly regarding the effect on Black ethnic groups. Here we explore the reasons for clozapine underuse in this population, identifying potential misconceptions and providing suggestions to address these barriers. Whiskey et al. discuss the reasons for the underuse of clozapine among Black individuals with treatment-resistant schizophrenia and propose changes to enhance clinicians’ confidence in prescribing it to this population.