The long-term antipsychotic treatment of schizophrenia: A selective review of clinical guidelines and clinical case examples

Abstract

There is a long-lasting debate regarding the long-term antipsychotic treatment of schizophrenia. The most frequently advocated strategy is continued antipsychotic maintenance treatment (i.e., continuous treatment with a constant dose of antipsychotic medication after symptom remission). Yet, because of the potential side effects of continued antipsychotic medication, other treatment strategies such as targeted intermittent treatment (i.e., stepwise drug discontinuation and early drug intervention in case of prodromal symptoms or early warning signs) have been discussed. In this manuscript, we review recommendations regarding the long-term antipsychotic treatment of schizophrenia from six evidence-based clinical guidelines. In line with the current state of research, all six clinical guidelines recommend continued antipsychotic maintenance treatment. Recommendations regarding other aspects of long-term antipsychotic treatment (e.g., the dosage of antipsychotic medication for long-term treatment, the minimum duration of antipsychotic long-term treatment, and discontinuation strategies) are more vague and heterogeneous. Additionally, we provide clinical case examples to illustrate different course types of patients exposed to targeted intermittent treatment. Finally, we discuss gaps in current clinical guidelines and future research avenues in antipsychotic maintenance treatment.