Does long-term treatment of schizophrenia with antipsychotic medications facilitate recovery?

Schizophr Bull. 2013 Sep;39(5):962-5. doi: 10.1093/schbul/sbt034. Epub 2013 Mar 19.

Abstract

Antipsychotic medications are viewed as cornerstones for both the short-term and long-term treatment of schizophrenia. However, evidence on long-term (10 or more years) efficacy of antipsychotics is mixed. Double-blind discontinuation studies indicate significantly more relapses in unmedicated schizophrenia patients in the first 6-10 months, but also present some potentially paradoxical features. These issues are discussed.

Keywords: longitudinal studies; outcome; psychosis; unmedicated patients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antipsychotic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Humans
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy*
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome*

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents