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Published on: April 23, 2014
[Neuroleptics and cognition]
Alexander Brunnauer1, Elisabeth Geiger, Gerd Laux
1Bezirksklinikum Gabersee, Abteilung Neuropsychologie, 83512 Wasserburg/Inn. Brunnauer.Alexander@gabersee.de
Objective:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of atypical antipsychotics on cognitive function in schizophrenic patients under clinical routine conditions.
Method:
Schizophrenic patients (n = 78) were evaluated on neuropsychological tests of attention, short-term- and working memory, learning, long-term memory (retention) and executive function. Data were analyzed according to medication, severity of illness and age.
Results:
We observed that treatment with atypical antipsychotics compared to conventional neuroleptics was significantly associated with a more favorable effect on cognitive function. Especially in short-term memory and retention a clear advantage of atypical antipsychotics could be seen.
Conclusion:
Results from this study suggest that even under clinical routine conditions atypical antipsychotics have an advantage on cognitive function when compared with conventional neuroleptics.
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