No research has yet identified a good treatment for schizophrenia, in spite of the huge amounts of research going on continually. Hence the basic goals of the treatment for schizophrenia are
Manage the schizophrenic symptoms
Improve and sustain the emotional well-being of the patient.
Assist the patient to lead their life normally by lending a helping hand in school, work, etc.
Medications can be employed to control the severity of the disorder.
Antipsychotic medications are important to be taken for the treatment of schizophrenia. Medications seem to have side effects but the type and severity of the effect may change between individuals. Some patients need to work with the psychiatrist for months or even years to identify the best suitable medication or the drug combination which is right for them. Schizophrenia seems to be a chronic mental illness and hence a patient will need to continue medication for the rest of their lives to prevent any relapse.
The surrounding people including the family play an important role for the patient to stay in treatment in spite of some setbacks. Since it also involves lifestyle changes like regular walks, healthy diet maintenance to control the side effects, the family help is greatly needed.
From the 1950s, antipsychotic drugs have been used in the treatment of schizophrenia, but it was effective in treating only the positive symptoms. The drugs normally used are haloperidol (Haldol), chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenzine (Prolixin) and perphenazine (Etrafon, Trilafon). Serious side effects that had been caused are tremors, muscle spasms, rigidity and restlessness.
In 1990, antipsychotics with fewer side effects like olanzapine (Zyprexa), clozapine (Clozaril), quietiapine (Seroquel), ziprasidone (Geodon) and risperidone (Risperdal) became popular. Among the above drugs, Clozaril is responsible for causing agranulocytosis (lowering of specific kinds of blood cells) and the others though do not cause agranulocytosis, can affect the metabolism and can result in weight gain and also increases the risk for diabetes and cholesterol. Based on the individual reactions, the doctors may find the most suitable one. But often other drugs along with antipsychotic drugs are normally prescribed to control symptoms like depression.
The greatest of the hurdles involved in recovery is that the patients often stop their medications without getting the advice of the doctor. This occurs when patients are not satisfied with the lifestyle changes needed or the side effects or just due to lack of remembrance. Sometimes denial and mistrust can also lead to discontinuation.
The best treatment may involve a holistic approach where the family, doctors and social workers are in constant communication and share responsibility for the improvement of the health of the patient. A good treatment regime must be complete and lifelong and include all elements.
The other useful treatment methods to build awareness are rehabilitations and psychosocial therapies. Stress management also plays an important role. Proper diet and exercise is essential for maintenance of the healthy mood. Besides, social interaction helps a lot in recovery. Constant work is needed to occupy the patient. It helps the patient to enhance his ability to cope with stress.