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Clozapine infection warning — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCNS TherapeuticsClozapine infection warningGPhC CRA

A 39-year-old man taking clozapine presents with sore throat, fever and mouth ulcers. His last full blood count was 3 weeks ago, and he says he has missed his clozapine monitoring appointment. He also takes metformin and simvastatin. What monitoring is required?

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Correct answer: B — Urgent full blood count with clozapine service contact

Clozapine can cause neutropenia and agranulocytosis, and fever or sore throat requires urgent blood count assessment. Missing monitoring increases concern and should prompt contact with the clozapine service. Full blood count is the key immediate monitoring requirement. Routine metabolic monitoring remains important but does not address this presentation.

Reference: BNF Clozapine; MHRA safety guidance