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Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Risperidone Treatment in Patients with First-Episode Schizophrenia
Introduction:
First-episode schizophrenia is a prevalent psychiatric disorder with a complex etiology. This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of risperidone in treating patients with first-episode schizophrenia.
Methods:
A literature search was conducted to identify studies on the efficacy of risperidone for first-episode schizophrenia. The literature was evaluated for quality, and a meta-analysis was then performed.
Results:
A total of 15 articles (6 in Chinese and 9 in English) were included. The meta-analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the cure rate (relative risk [RR]=0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.46-0.57, p <0.001) and the total marked improvement rate (RR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.52-0.65, p <0.001) favoring risperidone over control groups. The incidence of weight gain (p <0.001) and extrapyramidal symptoms (p=0.005) was higher with risperidone.
Conclusion:
Risperidone shows increased cure and effective rates compared with control groups (including placebo and other antipsychotics) in the treatment of patients with first-episode schizophrenia. However, it may increase the risk of extrapyramidal reactions and weight gain.
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