Another advantage of the newer medications is a reduction in side effects. TD is characterized by involuntary movements of the mouth, lips, tongue and other parts of the body. The new drugs represent an advance, leading to more independence and a higher quality of life for many people who previously had been institutionalized. The appropriate medication and dosage varies widely from person to person. The medication plan is best determined by a qualified physician experienced in treatment of mental illness.
Schizophrenia requires diligent follow-up care to ensure the most appropriate treatments.
People with schizophrenia may experience relapses despite continued drug treatment, but medications may reduce the frequency of relapses. In general, the goal of drug therapy is to effectively control symptoms at the lowest possible dosage. Unfortunately, many people with schizophrenia fail to comply with treatment. Schizophrenics commonly deny that anything is wrong with them. Although the most recent medications have reduced side effects and improved compliance rates, nonadherence with medication schedules remains a difficult problem.