Questions about a Disorder?
Drugs & Medications for Treating Schizophrenia
If you start on medication, remember that it is important not to stop taking it abruptly. Certain drugs must be tapered off under the supervision of a doctor or bad reactions can occur. Make sure you talk to the doctor who prescribed your medication before you stop taking it. If you are having trouble with side effects, it’s possible that they can be eliminated by adjusting how much medication you take and when you take it.
Most insurance plans, including health maintenance organizations (HMOs), will cover treatment for mental health disorders. Check with your insurance company and find out. If you don’t have insurance, your local city or county government may offer mental health care at a public mental health center that charges people according to how much they are able to pay.
Schizophrenia Drugs & Medications
This list of drugs and medications are often used to treat schizophrenia. While we have attempted to include most of the drugs, there are likely some that we have missed. Also, this list and any information related to drugs and medications on this website should ONLY be used as supplemental information, and should in no way be used in place of your physician or healthcare practioner.
Diagnosis
Symptoms
The symptoms of schizophrenia usually develop slowly over several months, or even years. Sometimes, a person might experience a lot of the symptoms, while at other times, they might only experience a few of them.
People who suffer from any kind of schizophrenia might have trouble working, going to school and keeping friends. Other problems might include suicidal behaviors and thoughts, anxiety and depression.
At the beginning of their illness, a person with schizophrenia might experience:
- Trouble concentrating.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Feeling tense, anxious or irritable.
Learn more about Schizophrenia Diagnosis
Questionnaire
This simple questionnaire is designed to help you determine if you have symptoms of disorder and could benefit from professional help.
Therapy
Medications
The most effective medications for schizophrenia to date are antipsychotic medications, which can change the brain's chemical balance and help control most symptoms of schizophrenia.
Although these medications are very useful, they can cause unwanted side effects. Most of the side effects can be treated or the patient may be switched to an alternative medication.
Possible side effects of antipsychotics include:
- Dizziness
- Restlessness and jitters
- Increased risk of high cholesterol or diabetes
- Drowsiness (sedation)
- Slower movements
- Tremors
- Weight gain
Progress Tracker
Track your schizophrenia symptoms to identify patterns and help with your treatment plan. Our progress tracker can be printed or even shared with your healthcare professional electronically.
Progress tracking for schizophrenia
Schizophrenia Questionnaire
This simple questionnaire is designed to help you determine if you have symptoms of disorder and could benefit from professional help.