What to ask when prescribed a new medication for schizophrenia

Treatment for schizophrenia involves both medications as well as non-medication therapies. Non-medication therapies can include counseling for individuals and families, behavioral therapy, patient education, and social support.

The medications used to treat schizophrenia are called neuroleptic medications, also known as antipsychotic medications. These medications work by acting on specific neurotransmitters, chemicals that enable signaling and communication between nerve cells and other cells.

When a person has schizophrenia, some neurotransmitters do not function normally. Neuroleptic medications change how neurotransmitters work and can help control symptoms.

However, schizophrenia is a complex condition, and neurotransmitter dysfunction is only one aspect. Also, the causes of schizophrenia are not fully understood.

Different therapies work for different people

There are many different neuroleptic medications available, and different medications and combinations of medications work better for different people. The goal is to find the medication or combination that works best and causes the fewest side effects.

You may need to try several different neuroleptics, dosages, combinations of neuroleptics, or combinations of neuroleptics and other medications before finding an approach that works for you. A healthcare provider may recommend changing between oral medications and injectable medications depending on treatment needs.

With that in mind, here is a list of questions you can ask your healthcare provider when starting any new medication.

Questions about the medication:

• What is the name of the medication?
• What type of medication is this? For example, “Is this a first-generation or second-generation antipsychotic?”
• What dosage am I being prescribed?
• How does this medication work to treat schizophrenia?
• How do I take this medication? How often do I take this medication?
• Oral neuroleptics are usually taken daily. Know what times of day you need to take each medication. Know what to do if you miss a dose or accidentally take an extra dose.
• Long-acting injectables (LAIs) are administered by a healthcare provider weeks or months apart depending on the specific drug being used. Always know when your next appointment is.

How long will it take to notice a difference in symptoms?

How should I expect to feel while taking this medication?

What will this medication cost? What can I do if I have concerns about the cost?

How will we know if this medication is working? How long will it take before the medication works?

What options do I have if this medication is not effective, or if I need to stop taking this medication?

Questions about side effects:

• What are the potential side effects?
• What will we do if I experience side effects?
• Is there a risk of serious side effects?
• How will I be monitored for side effects?
• What steps can I take to avoid side effects or reduce risk?
• What things do I need to avoid while taking this medication? For example, alcohol and recreational drugs.

Monitoring for and managing side effects is an important part of treatment. Side effects can include drowsiness, weight gain, and involuntary movement disorders. A healthcare provider will be your best source of information about the risk of side effects, monitoring, and steps to take if you experience a side effect.

It’s also important that your healthcare providers are aware of all medications you are taking. Create a list of all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements (including herbal products) that you are taking. Share this list with each of your healthcare providers. This can help you avoid unwanted drug interactions. Your pharmacist is also a valuable source of information.