Approaching long-term neuroleptic treatment of schizophrenia

N. Hansell

Neuroleptic therapy can prevent some acute episodes and may improve the level of function in some cases of chronic schizophrenia. The hazards of tardive dyskinesia require a rigorous design for any long-term use of neuroleptics. The protocol includes narrow indications, demonstrations of efficacy and necessity, and arrangements for surveillance, cooperation, and emergency. Patient instruction improves the precision of medication use and may increase adaptive efforts during episodes.