Update in the treatment of schizophrenia

The large number of drugs available to treat schizophrenia and the emergence of atypical and newer agents that provide efficiency with lessening of side effects may not only serve to provide more amelioration against this disease, but may also help us to unravel the neurochemical defects of the disorder. Despite these encouraging trends, the reality is that schizophrenia is still a devastating illness for a sizeable minority affected with the condition, that a 'cure' is not yet possible, and that drug therapies alone will not provide all that is required in acute or continuing management. Supporting care in the community for patient and family are just as important as pharmacotherapy in managing this problem.