NEUROLEPTIC MANAGEMENT OF SCHIZOPHRENIA - A SURVEY AND COMMENTARY ON AUSTRALIAN PSYCHIATRIC PRACTICE

Objective: We seek to assess Australian psychiatrists' views and pract ices concerning provision of neuroleptic medication to patients with s chizophrenia, and to determine whether such management strategies are likely to have changed over time and the extent to which they correspo nd to published treatment guidelines. Method: A sample of 139 psychiat rists based in three Australian capital cities was derived, with respo ndents completing a brief questionnaire by choosing from a limited-opt ion answer set. Co-authors of this paper comment on the extent to whic h responses are in line with contemporary recommendations driven by ex perts or empirical studies. Results: Overall, survey findings indicate that there has been considerable change in clinical practice over the last decade and provide some estimate of the extent to which Australi an management practices are congruent with contemporary recommendation s. We identify a number of issues of concern (more in relation to dose levels of neuroleptic medication rather than treatment duration) reve aled by survey data and make recommendations for addressing a number o f practical clinical issues. Conclusions: As this report focuses on ce ntral issues involved in managing schizophrenia, and integrates a numb er of treatment guidelines, we suggest that it should be of assistance for practice review by clinicians.