Overview
Long-term antipsychotic treatment is the standard treatment for people diagnosed with schizophrenia and similar, recurrent psychotic conditions. It has been shown to reduce rates of relapse but most trials involve abrupt discontinuation. Antipsychotic medication also has significant side effects so minimising unnecessary exposure is important. The Research on Antipsychotic Discontinuation And Reduction (RADAR) trial was a randomised trial set up to see if gradual reduction of antipsychotic medication could improve social functioning, without increasing the risk of relapse substantially.
The trial enrolled 253 participants and followed them up for 24 months. It included a qualitative sub-study of the experience of people allocated to the antipsychotic reduction strategy. Results showed relapse rates were higher in the reduction group compared to the maintenance group, with no differences in social functioning or other outcomes. The session will present the results of the trial, including the qualitative results and new data on the predictors of relapse. It will involve reflection on the significance of the results for clinical decision making.
Objectives
- To understand evidence on the pros and cons of long-term antipsychotic treatment, including evidence from the RADAR trial.
- To appreciate the patient’s perspective on the effects of reducing antipsychotics.
- To assess whether any factors can predict relapse following antipsychotic reduction or discontinuation.
- To consider next steps in research on long-term antipsychotic treatment.
Speakers
Chair: Professor David Kingdon, University of Southampton, Southampton
Professor Joanna Moncrieff, University College London, London
Professor Nicola Morant, University College London, London
Professor Robin Murray, King's College London, London
