Medicine for Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a mental condition that makes differentiating between reality and imagined experiences difficult. Causes of schizophrenia are unclear. Genetics plays a role, as do psychological and social factors. Antipsychotic medications are usually used in the treatment of schizophrenia.

Conventional Antipsychotic Medications

• Medications such as Thioridazine and Fluphenazine have been used to treat schizophrenia for many years. They cost less than newer drugs, but have a higher incidence of adverse side effects such as involuntary jerking movements.

Atypical Antipsychotics

• Newer medications such as Clozapine and Paliperidone usually more costly than older antipsychotic medications. Adverse side effects associated with these drugs include weight gain and high cholesterol.

Selecting a Medication

• Doctors choose an antipsychotic medication based on a number of factors. If a particular medication does not provide relief or has intolerable side effects, they may change the medication or its dosage.

Goals of Medication

• Due to the possibilities of adverse side effects, most doctors attempt to find the minimum dosage of the antipsychotic medication that will treat the schizophrenia effectively.

Cautions for Antipsychotics

• Patients should not discontinue antipsychotic medications unless directed by a doctor. Many antipsychotic drugs need to be gradually withdrawn to prevent withdrawal symptoms.