Managing schizophrenia during the stable phase: Is there consensus among practice guidelines?

Abstract

Method: We performed a literature search using Medline and Psycinfo databases and Google Internet search engine. Results: We identified 6 clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). All stress the need for antipsychotic therapy and psychosocial interventions. Differences lie in types of antipsychotics recommended duration of antipsychotic trial, management of extrapyramidal symptoms, and types of psychosocial interventions. Areas poorly addressed by all guidelines include definition of the stable phase of schizophrenia, management of adverse effects with atypical agents, management of clozapine nonresponders, and management of personality issues. Conclusion: Published CPGs are helpful in the management of the stable phase of schizophrenia, although no single CPG series appears to address all treatment needs faced by practising clinicians.