Increased suicide attempt rate among patients interrupting use of atypical antipsychotics

Abstract

Patients who do not refill atypical antipsychotics in time can be identified in the pharmacy and are most likely those with an increased risk to commit suicide.

Survey of medication adherence in patients with schizophrenia—Korean ADHES data

“…However, a report showed that only 27% of schizophrenic patients met the criteria for good adherence to antipsychotic medication (Razali and Yahya, 1995). Poor adherence to medication is strongly associated with poor health outcomes, such as increased risk of relapse, repeated emergency room visits, worsening of symptoms and suicide attempts (Robinson et al, 1999;Moore et al, 2000;Herings and Erkens, 2003).…”

Aripiprazole Intramuscular Depot as Maintenance Treatment in Patients With Schizophrenia

“…4 Nonadherence also represents a barrier to patient recovery. 5,6 In addition, discontinuation of medication is the largest predictor of relapse risk in schizophrenia. 7,8 Long-acting injectable antipsychotics relieve patients from the daily need to take medication and subsequently have the potential to improve adherence.…”

Suicidality and second generation anytipsychotics in schizophrenia patients: a case-controlled retrospective study during a 5-year period

“…Data from recent studies indirectly emphasize the association of SGA use and lower rates of suicidality in schizophrenia patients. Herings and Erkens (2003) investigated whether patients at risk to commit suicide could be identified based on their treatment adherence patterns. Patients who did not adhere to atypical antipsychotics regime were demonstrated to be those with an increased risk to commit suicide.…”