Haloperidol, fluphenazine, and chlorpromazine are known as conventional, or
Antipsychotics. Antipsychotics are usually recommended as the initial treatment for the symptoms of an acute schizophrenic episode. They work by blocking the effect of the chemical dopamine, or other chemicals on the brain.
Antipsychotic medications are the first-line medication treatment for schizophrenia. They have been shown in clinical trials to be effective in treating symptoms and behaviors associated with the disorder.
Our results on rehospitalization due to psychosis support these earlier findings that lithium, valproic acid and lamotrigine may be beneficial at least for some patients presenting residual symptoms.
Common Causes of a Schizophrenia Relapse
Not taking medication regularly or as prescribed is by far the most common cause of schizophrenia relapse. Persistent use of drugs or alcohol and criticism from caregivers are next on the list.
Research suggests a combination of physical, genetic, psychological and environmental factors can make a person more likely to develop the condition. Some people may be prone to schizophrenia, and a stressful or emotional life event might trigger a psychotic episode.
Psychosis can also be triggered by traumatic experiences, stress, or physical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, a brain tumour, or as a result of drug misuse or alcohol misuse. How often a psychotic episode occurs and how long it lasts can depend on the underlying cause.
Medications are the cornerstone of schizophrenia treatment, and antipsychotic medications are the most commonly prescribed drugs. They're thought to control symptoms by affecting the brain neurotransmitter dopamine.
Ask questions about the person's fears, and talk to the person about the paranoia if the person wants to listen to you. If someone is threatening you, you should call for help. Use simple directions, if needed. Tell the person that no harm will come to him or her and that you can help.
Seeing, hearing, or tasting things that others do not. Suspiciousness and a general fear of others' intentions. Persistent, unusual thoughts or beliefs. Difficulty thinking clearly.
In most people with schizophrenia, symptoms generally start in the mid- to late 20s, though it can start later, up to the mid-30s. Schizophrenia is considered early onset when it starts before the age of 18. Onset of schizophrenia in children younger than age 13 is extremely rare.
The majority of people with schizophrenia get better over time, not worse. For every five people who develop schizophrenia: One will get better within five years of experiencing their first symptoms. Three will get better, but will still have times when their symptoms get worse.
Never tell your loved one that their symptoms are “not true,” “not real,” “imaginary,” or all in their head. Aim to be nonjudgmental.
In the past, it was accepted that schizophrenia can worsen as people age. However, research in recent years suggests that although some symptoms may get worse with age, others will remain stable, and some symptoms may actually improve with age.
Signs and symptoms may vary, but usually involve delusions, hallucinations or disorganized speech, and reflect an impaired ability to function. Symptoms may include: Delusions. These are false beliefs that are not based in reality.
The truth is that while schizophrenia is influenced by genetics, it isn't directly inherited.
ABILIFY MAINTENA® (aripiprazole) is a once-monthly* injectable treatment for schizophrenia in adults that may help people remain relapse-free longer.
In these cases, various add‐on medications are used, among them lithium. Lithium stabilises a person's mood and is used as an add‐on treatment with antipsychotics for schizophrenia. Lithium can reduce mania and depression.
However the newer SSRIs such as Citalopram, Sertraline, Fluoxetine and Paroxetine are effective at alleviating depression in most cases of schizophrenia. The effects of antidepressants are not seen immediately and it is usually necessary to take the drug for several weeks before the benefits are properly felt.