Research in schizophrenia and the discontinuation of antipsychotic medications.

This article, and the accompanying one by Dr. Carpenter, discuss the benefits and risks associated with taking patients with schizophrenia off medications for research purposes. This article reviews the concept that at least some forms of schizophrenia are progressive. Evidence for this view is provided by studies examining the impact of early intervention with antipsychotic medications on the long-term morbidity of schizophrenia, as well as the few studies examining the long-term risks of discontinuing antipsychotic medications in patients with schizophrenia. While there is evidence that early intervention improves the long-term course of the illness, it is not known whether withdrawal of antipsychotic medications increases long-term morbidity. This is an area where further information is needed for clinical practice and research.