Penfluridol in chronic schizophrenia

Twenty-eight male chronic schizophrenic patients completed a 6 month treatment with a single weekly dose of 20 to 120 mg penfluridol, a new long- acting oral neuroleptic. Twenty-four patients showed significant improvement at the end of the trial period. Significant reduction in scores could be demonstrated in 21 out of 26 symptom variables. Central side-effects, reported by 19 patients, were mild and transient except in one patient who was withdrawn from the trial. Laboratory investigations and vital signs remained within normal limits.