[Pharmacotherapy for schizophrenia: are newer drugs truly superior?]

There is an argument that the superiority of second-generation antipsychotics (SGA) over first-generation antipsychotics (FGA) was established in part by the inappropriate use of FGA. When comparison was made with a proper FGA other than haloperidol or a low dose of FGA, the superiority of SGA disappeared in some studies. It would be too optimistic to regard the use of SGA itself as providing substantial progress in the level of treatment. However, with the introduction of SGA, the more effective and proper use of antipsychotics has prevailed. It is of clinical significance to pay more attention to the quality of life and rehabilitation of patients. At present, evidence indicates that clozapine is the most efficacious in treatment-resistant patients, despite its high-risk profile. The proper use of the drug is an important clinical issue.