Indications for long-term pharmacological treatment of schizophrenic syndromes

The practice of long term pharmacological treatment of schizophrenic syndromes has become widespread and seems to be currently recommended. The concept appears, however, to be poorly defined, and the assumptions underlying this therapeutic approach are scarcely discussed. In the present paper possible differences as concerns the hypotheses which might motivate a long term pharmacological treatment are schetched and their possible implications discussed. A short review of factors which might influence the decision for long term pharmacological treatment is also presented. Finally some recommendations for an appropriate management of long term psychopharmacological treatment are suggested.