Long-term phase of schizophrenia: impact of atypical agents.

Typical antipsychotic agents are poorly suited to the long-term treatment of schizophrenia, particularly since the introduction of atypical compounds has increased the expectations of both physicians and patients. Well-being and quality of life--now important considerations--have shown significant improvements in patients treated with atypical agents such as amisulpride rather than typical agents such as haloperidol. This is associated with alleviation of negative symptoms and cognitive deficits, benefits which are not seen with traditional agents and which increase the likelihood of successful rehabilitation.