Are other tests needed? The prescribing doctor may ask for some other tests to help ensure general wellness. These may include blood tests for changes to heart muscle (for cardiomyopathy or myocarditis), and/or glucose levels (for diabetes). Why test for changes to heart muscle? Changes to heart muscle may occur with clozapine treatment, which can lead to conditions called cardiomyopathy and myocarditis. • Cardiomyopathy is very rare, affecting less than 1 in 10,000 people taking clozapine. • Pericarditis is rare, affecting between 1 in 10,000 and 1 in 1,000 people taking clozapine in Australia. • Myocarditis is uncommon, affecting between 1 in 1000, and 1 in 100 people taking clozapine in Australia. To learn more about these conditions, please speak to the prescribing doctor. Why test for glucose levels? People with schizophrenia are more likely to be overweight or obese. They may also be at an increased risk for type 2 diabetes (2 to 4 times greater than the rest of the population). A well-balanced diet and regular exercise may help to minimise the risk of diabetes. The prescribing doctor will manage any diabetes risk as needed. Some strategies for helping to ensure general wellness include keeping appointments, having tests done and talking to the prescribing doctor about how treatment is going. 09
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI3ODI1