Clozapine induced globus pharyngeus: A case report

Abstract

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic agent often recommended after the failure of two or more antipsychotics for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Clozapine has proven efficacy in reducing morbidity and suicide in schizophrenic patients. However, it is generally underutilized for eligible patients, primarily because of the associated side effects. Notably, clozapine's side effects on the gut include hypomotility, constipation, and dysphagia, which are secondary to the anticholinergic properties of the medication. Thus far, there remains a dearth in the literature regarding reported foreign body sensations on the throat. Therefore, we report a case of foreign body sensation on the throat in a patient receiving clozapine. Foreign body sensation on the throat is an alarming concern, given the role of the oropharynx in the airway. Hence, it is imperative to evaluate unfamiliar body sensation on the throat as part of comprehensive assessment of the gut side effects of clozapine therapy.