ABSTRACT

Long-term outcomes for people with schizophrenia are usually disappointing. With conventional antipsychotic treatment, two-thirds of those treated have persistent positive symptoms. The same proportion also experiences persistent parkinsonian side effects. Rates of unemployment and rehospitalization are high, quality of life ratings are low, and the lifetime risk of suicide is approximately 10% (1). Atypical antipsychotics represent a significant advance in the treatment of schizophrenia. Treatment with these medications may improve long-term outcomes for people suffering from this devastating illness.