Profiling of drug adherence among patients with treatment resistant schizophrenia

Abstract

A review and meta-analysis of studies was conducted that compared the efficacy and tolerability of typical and second-generation antipsychotics for patients and drug adherence with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. A systematic approach to the evaluation and characterization of treatment resistance in schizophrenia has become increasingly important since the introduction of clozapine, risperidone, and olanzapine. Non-adherence is a complex phenomenon, with a wide variety of patterns. From the prescribed medication, the patient might either take lower or higher doses, follow a schedule other than prescribed, completely abandon the treatment or refuse attending regular visits or being admitted to hospital. Furthermore, the pattern may change in different phases of the disease.