Hi, Abbie. What you probably read is that Clozaril is "not FDA-indicated to treat bipolar," or words to that effect. But it is used "off-label" to treat bipolar, and off-label use is highly acceptable medical practice.  Clozaril was the first "atypical antipsychotic." All the other drugs in this class are based on Clozaril and all these are FDA-approved to treat bipolar. Had Novartis applied for an FDA indication for this purpose, it probably would have gone through, but they would have had to invest tens of millions in clinical trials, etc.

There are issues involving white blood cell count (requiring frequent blood testing) which tends to make this med a last rather than a first option. But for the right patient, this med has been a life-saver.