What assessment finding would require discontinuation of Clozaril?

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The requirement to discontinue Clozaril, an antipsychotic medication known to potentially cause agranulocytosis, lies in its association with significantly decreased white blood cell counts. Agranulocytosis poses a serious risk because it leaves the individual susceptible to severe infections due to a compromised immune system. Regular monitoring of white blood cell counts is a critical aspect of treatment with Clozaril, and if agranulocytosis is detected, immediate cessation of the drug is necessary to prevent serious health complications.

Other findings, such as elevated blood pressure, could be monitored and managed without necessarily stopping the medication, and weight gain, while a common side effect, typically does not warrant discontinuation. Similarly, a severe headache might need evaluation, but it does not inherently indicate that Clozaril must be stopped unless other severe symptoms accompany it. Therefore, the presence of agranulocytosis is the finding that mandates the discontinuation of Clozaril due to the significant danger it poses to the patient's health.

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