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Double-Blind Comparison of Half-Dose and Standard-Dose Flupenthixol Decanoate in the Maintenance Treatment of Stabilised Out-Patients with Schizophrenia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

D. A. W. Johnson*
Affiliation:
The Pastures Hospital, Derby
J. M. Ludlow
Affiliation:
The Pastures Hospital, Derby
K. Street
Affiliation:
Manchester Polytechnic
R. D. W. Taylor
Affiliation:
Manchester Polytechnic
*
University Hospital of South Manchester, West Didsbury, Manchester M20 8LR

Abstract

A double-blind controlled trial of 50% dose reduction in maintenance treatment in stable out-patients with low BPRS scores and good social function shows a significantly higher relapse rate in the low-dose group at 12 months (P < 0.05). After an interval of 24–36 months from dose reduction, 56–76% had experienced a relapse and 76–79% had resumed their former dosage. No clear advantage was shown for the lower dose in either a reduction of side-effects or improved social function, but a reduced prevalence or lower rate of symptom emergence for tardive dyskinesia was suggested.

Type
Papers
Copyright
Copyright © 1987 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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