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Published in:

01-06-2011

A Tipping Point in Drug Dosing in Late-Life Schizophrenia

Authors: Takashi Tsuboi, Takefumi Suzuki, Hiroyuki Uchida

Published in: Current Psychiatry Reports | Issue 3/2011

Abstract

Minimally effective doses of antipsychotics are likely influenced by several clinical and demographic characteristics of patients, with age being one of the most important elements. In light of age-related physiologic changes as well as interindividual differences in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic systems, individualized dosing with regard to age will be critically important for safer drug treatment for older patients with schizophrenia. In the present review, we propose the following cautious psychopharmacologic interventions for this population: 1) simple regimen (avoid polypharmacy), 2) be aware of the presence of patients who are very sensitive to drugs, 3) gradual dose titration, and 4) timely and thorough assessments of therapeutic and side effects. The age-related antipsychotic sensitivity highlights the importance of finding the lowest possible effective dose of antipsychotic drugs as patients with schizophrenia age to maximize therapeutic effects and minimize side effects.

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Title: A Tipping Point in Drug Dosing in Late-Life Schizophrenia
Authors: Takashi Tsuboi
Takefumi Suzuki
Hiroyuki Uchida
Publication date: 01-06-2011
Publisher: Current Science Inc.
Published in: Current Psychiatry Reports / Issue 3/2011
Print ISSN: 1523-3812
Electronic ISSN: 1535-1645
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-011-0189-z

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

A Tipping Point in Drug Dosing in Late-Life Schizophrenia

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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