What precautions should I take when using atypical antipsychotic drugs?
Although the atypical antipsychotics are generally safe, clozapine has been associated with severe agranulocytosis, a shortage of white blood cells. For this reason, people who may be treated with clozapine should have blood counts before starting the drug, blood counts every week for as long as they are using clozapine, and blood counts every week for the first 4 weeks after they stop taking clozapine. If there is any evidence of a drop in the white blood count while using clozapine, the drug should be stopped. Atypical antipsychotics should not be used in patients with liver damage, brain or circulatory problems, or some types of blood problems. Source: The Gale Group.
