The researchers
observed that there was a marked decrease in relapse rates at one year in
patients treated with antipsychotic drugs. The number of patients requiring
re-admission with antipsychotic drugs was quite less than those with placebo.
The injectable antipsychotic drugs reduced the relapsing
of schizophrenia more than the oral drugs.
Some adverse effects
reported include, movement disorders increased sedation and weight gain in
patients on antipsychotic drugs.
The researchers finally
stated that the benefits of antipsychotic drugs should be contrasted against
the adverse effects produced by them. They further added that more researches
are required to elucidate the long-term mortality and morbidity of
antipsychotic drugs.
Reference :
Antipsychotic drugs versus placebo for relapse
prevention in schizophrenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis; Stefan et
al; The Lancet Online Publication 2012
Source: Medindia
