Clozapine Associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy

A 31-year-old white man was referred for investigation of a persistent sinus tachycardia. His only significant past medical history was of chronic schizophrenia for which he had been taking clozapine for six years. An electrocardiogram demonstrated sinus tachycardia, voltage criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy, and a prolonged QTc. Echocardiographic findings were consistent with a dilated cardiomyopathy. Serious cardiac complications of clozapine use are rare but have been reported previously. It is important to note that sinus tachycardia may be the only obvious clinical sign, and that complications can manifest months or even years (as in this case) after starting the drug. Patients on clozapine should be informed of potential cardiac symptoms and doctors should maintain a high degree of clinical suspicion throughout the duration of treatment.