Heart Health Concerns: Clozapine's Impact on Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians

Clozapine is a powerful drug used to treat certain mental health conditions. However, it's known to cause problems like diabetes and heart disease. A recent study looked at how this drug affects the heart health of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. The study found that a large number of people taking clozapine have health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and metabolic syndrome. This is worrying because these conditions can lead to serious heart problems. The study also found that Indigenous Australians are at an even higher risk.One of the key findings was that while most patients received regular check-ups, not everyone got the help they needed to manage their health. This includes things like advice on eating better and exercising more. Instead, many patients were given medication to manage their symptoms. The study suggests that better guidelines and more integrated care are needed. This means doctors and other health professionals need to work together more closely to help patients manage their health. It's important to note that while the study provides valuable insights, it's just one piece of the puzzle. More research is needed to fully understand the impact of clozapine on heart health and how best to manage it.