Antipsicóticos de ação prolongada no tratamento de manutenção da esquizofrenia: Parte I. Fundamentos do seu desenvolvimento, benefícios e nível de aceitação em diferentes países e culturas.

Abstract

In this study, the foundations of long-acting antipsychotics development, the adherence to treatment, the factors that make difficult the following of the prescription and their consequences, the benefits and acceptance of long-acting antipsychotics are revised. Based on the data obtained from the first part of this study, the following issues must be highlighted: the non-adherence treatment level in schizophrenia is about 60%. Considering schizophrenia a chronic disease with high relapse risk, the maintenance treatment helps its control. The long-acting antipsychotics were developed exactly for the purpose of guaranteeing the administration of the medication and its regularity, which are essential requirements in preventing a relapse. In spite of the immensurable benefits of the long-acting antipsychotics, several factors have contributed to their usage below their potential.