Which laboratory test should be reviewed prior to administering clozapine?

The laboratory test that should be reviewed prior to administering clozapine is total cholesterol. Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic that, while effective for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, is associated with a range of potential side effects, including metabolic syndrome. One of the significant effects of clozapine is its tendency to induce weight gain, increase triglycerides, and elevate cholesterol levels, which places patients at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases.

Regular monitoring of total cholesterol and other metabolic parameters is vital when a patient is on clozapine to ensure that any significant changes can be managed effectively. This proactive approach can help mitigate the risk of long-term complications associated with hyperlipidemia and other metabolic issues.

Other tests such as troponin, creatinine, and thyroid stimulating hormone, while important for different aspects of health monitoring, are not specifically related to the primary metabolic concerns associated with clozapine therapy. Troponin is typically used to assess cardiac muscle injury, creatinine evaluates kidney function, and thyroid stimulating hormone assesses thyroid function. None of these are directly linked to the metabolic side effects that necessitate monitoring when a patient is prescribed clozapine.