The Neuroleptic Treatment of Schizophrenia: Dosing Strategies, Depot Preparations and Novel Medications

Abstract

Sign ificant progress has been made over the past decade in the use qfant ipsychotic medication. An improved understa nding ofneuroleptic side effects has led to the development qf new clinical strategiesfor dosing tradit ional medications. T raditi onal medicat ions have become widely used in depot preparations. Risperidone, a new medication with an improved side dfect profile, has recentl y become avai lable. Clozapine, a novel medication , has entered widespread use. Th e use of these new clinica l technologies is briefly discussed, along with the implications they hate for the role ofthe psychiat rist in community mental health setti ngs.