Monitoring sertraline and clozapine levels

Abstract

Introduction One of the most frequent side effects seen when prescribing sertraline and clozapine together is the appearance of a seizure crisis. This event is usually related to an increase of plasmatic concentration due to interactions of these drugs with blood components. Objectives To investigate the effects of clozapine when combined with other drugs, especially its effects increasing plasmatic concentration. Methods A patient was treated sith 300 mg/day of clozapine followed by a treatment with sertraline 50 mg/day, which increases plasmatic concentration. The combination of these treatments produced seizures. Other works published about interactions are reviewed. Results It is important to monitor clozapine dosages to avoid increasing plasmatic concentration, especially if other drugs that have this effect are also administered. Conclusions It is important to monitor clozapine dosages to avoid increasing plasmatic concentration, especially if other drugs that have this effect are also administered. Disclosure No significant relationships.

Keywords

• sertraline clozapine side effects