Antipsychotic Treatment Recommendations

Critical Relapse Risk Timeline

Approximately 65% of patients receiving placebo will relapse within 1 year of their acute psychotic phase, compared with only 30% receiving antipsychotics 2
Over 5 years, approximately 80% of patients experience at least one relapse when off medication 2

A medication-free trial may only be considered in newly diagnosed patients who have been completely symptom-free for at least 6 to 12 months 2
Any evidence of disorder recurrence warrants immediate resumption of treatment 2

Restart antipsychotic treatment now rather than extending the drug-free period 1, 2
Maintenance treatment should continue for at least 12 months after beginning of remission 1
For patients stable for several years, any future discontinuation attempts should only be considered in consultation with mental health professionals, with careful attention to relapse risk and patient preferences 1
Close monitoring is essential during the first 4 weeks after restarting 3