Evidence-based guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia: recommendations from the British Association for Psychopharmacology

Abstract

These guidelines from the British Association for Psychopharmacology address the scope and targets of pharmacological treatment for schizophrenia. A consensus meeting, involving experts in schizophrenia and its treatment, reviewed key areas and considered the strength of evidence and clinical implications. The guidelines were drawn up after extensive feedback from the participants and interested parties, and cover the pharmacological management and treatment of schizophrenia across the various stages of the illness, including first-episode, relapse prevention, and illness that has proved refractory to standard treatment. The practice recommendations presented are based on the available evidence to date, and seek to clarify which interventions are of proven benefit. It is hoped that the recommendations will help to inform clinical decision making for practitioners, and perhaps also serve as a source of information for patients and carers. They are accompanied by a more detailed qualitative review of the available evidence. The strength of supporting evidence for each recommendation is rated.

Medication-related factors of non adherence among patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder: Outcome of a cross-sectional survey in Maiduguri, North-eastern Nigeria

“…The use of medications, in conjunction with other psychosocial interventions constitutes the cornerstone in the management of these disorders (Barnes et al, 2011;Goodwin et al, 2009). Therefore, adherence to the various therapeutic modalities, most especially, pharmacotherapy is critical for an optimal outcome.…”

Physical Health and Schizophrenia in Clinical Practice Guidelines and Consensus Statements

“…According to the non-modifiable risk factors, all of the studies identified concur on the inclusion of a comprehensive personal and family medical history [2,7,[16][17][18][19][20][21]. It should include the personal and family history with regard to cardiovascular problems, comorbid conditions, diabetes, high-risk behaviors for viral illnesses, hypertension, obesity, oncological problems, substance use and smoking.…”

Pharmacological Treatment of Schizophrenia:

“…Also, given the low conversion rate in the placebo group, inappropriate treatment in young people, who may not be at true risk, remains on issue. Accordingly, recent treatment guidelines for subjects at UHR for psychosis recommend the use of APDs only in exceptional conditions and with considerable precautions [16][17][18]. Notably, interventions with omega-3 fatty acids may also be effective for averting transition to psychosis [19] and this represents an active area of research [20].…”