How Regulatory Barriers Are Harming Patients in Need of Clozapine with Rachel Streiff

In this episode of the Self Disclosed Podcast, host Patrick Gilligan sits down with Rachel Streiff, a passionate advocate for individuals living with serious mental illness and their families. Rachel shares her personal journey into the world of clozapine, an antipsychotic medication used for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, and discusses the significant barriers patients face in accessing this life-saving treatment.

Rachel highlights the challenges posed by the FDA's Clozapine REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) program, which has created unnecessary hurdles for both patients and healthcare providers. With only about 10% of those indicated for clozapine actually receiving it, Rachel emphasizes the urgent need for change in how this medication is prescribed and monitored.

Join us as we explore the stigma surrounding clozapine, the impact of regulatory barriers, and the grassroots movement led by the "Angry Moms" to advocate for better access to mental health care. Rachel also shares her insights on the upcoming FDA committee hearing and how listeners can support the cause.

If you're passionate about mental health advocacy and want to learn more about clozapine and the fight for patient rights, this episode is a must-listen!

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

• Support Rachel's work and sign the petition to end the Clozapine REMS: change.org/endtheclozapinerems
• Learn more about the Angry Moms movement: theangrymoms.com

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help raise awareness about the importance of access to mental health treatment!