The use of carbamazepine in the treatment of schizophrenic and schizoaffective psychoses: a review.

This article reviews current literature on the clinical efficacy of carbamazepine (CBZ) administration in schizophrenic and schizoaffective psychoses. With respect to the use of CBZ in cases of aggression, overactivity and other behavioral dyscontrol syndromes, only a few, mainly open, studies have been conducted. Attention to the efficacy of CBZ in schizophrenia and related psychoses was rather late in developing, with most of the studies done since 1981. Although the results of the different controlled and uncontrolled experiments are very difficult to compare, the results generally indicate beneficial effects--particularly if CBZ is used as an adjunct to neuroleptic medication. Suggestions for future research strategies to maximize the usefulness of CBZ in schizophrenia and related disorders are given.