Which medication is monitored under the Clozapine REMS program?

Clozapine is the medication that is specifically monitored under the Clozapine Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program due to its associated risk of severe neutropenia, which can lead to life-threatening infections. The Clozapine REMS program was established to ensure that patients receiving clozapine are monitored appropriately for this risk.

This monitoring includes regular assessments of white blood cell counts and ensuring that patients are educated about the potential side effects of clozapine. The importance of this program lies in the fact that while clozapine can be very effective for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, it requires a careful approach to prescribing and monitoring to mitigate potential safety risks.

The other medications listed, including Risperdal, Seroquel, and Zyprexa, do not have the same specific REMS program requirements related to monitoring for severe adverse effects like clozapine does. Therefore, clozapine's unique risk profile and the comprehensive monitoring mandated by the REMS program underscore why it is the correct choice in this context.