Restraint, seclusion, and clozapine.

BACKGROUND

The effects of clozapine, an unconventional neuroleptic drug, on the use of restraint and seclusion in patients have not been extensively reported on in the United States.

METHOD

The records of 107 patients receiving clozapine in Missouri state mental hospitals were reviewed over a 13-month period for frequency and duration of restraint and seclusion.

RESULTS

During clozapine treatment, patients had fewer episodes of restraint and seclusion than previously. The duration of restraints and seclusions also decreased, starting the second month after the initiation of clozapine treatment.

CONCLUSION

For patients who were restrained or secluded before clozapine treatment, the decrease in the number and duration of restraint and seclusion episodes was dramatic.