What is a potential risk of using high doses of clozapine?

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic that is primarily used for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. While it can be effective, high doses pose several risks, one of which is an increased likelihood of seizures. This risk is particularly pertinent as clozapine has a dose-dependent relationship with the occurrence of seizures; the higher the dose, the greater the risk. This risk is attributed to the pharmacological effects of clozapine on the central nervous system, which can lower the seizure threshold and thereby provoke seizure activity, especially in predisposed individuals.

In contrast, weight loss, severe drowsiness, and hypoglycemia are not the primary concerns associated with high doses of clozapine and are less commonly noted as significant risks. While drowsiness can occur as a side effect of many antipsychotic medications, it does not typically escalate to severe levels in the context of clozapine, especially as sedation may be more prominent with lower doses or during the initiation of therapy. Similarly, substantial weight loss and hypoglycemia are not widely reported adverse effects related to clozapine at high doses, distinguishing the risk of seizures as a notable concern for practitioners when managing patients on this medication.