Abstract

CURRENT AND EMERGING TREATMENTS FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA: A CONCISE REVIEW

Bhavin Rathore*, Krish Kumar, Goutam Singh, Yashica Chauhan, Aditya Pant and Dr. B. S. Sonigara

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Abstract

Schizophrenia is a complicated psychiatric illness characterized by the presence of positive (e.g. hallucinations and delusions), negative (e.g. emotional withdrawal and avolition), and cognitive symptoms (e.g. memory and attention deficits). While there have been developments in first- and second-generation antipsychotic medications, there remain large treatment gaps, notably for negative symptoms and cognitive impairment, as well as restrictions associated with antipsychotic medications such as metabolic syndrome and tardive dyskinesia. This article will review the current and emerging treatments for schizophrenia, including pharmacological, non-pharmacological and emerging class of agents. First-generation antipsychotics can provide effective acute management of psychosis but can present neurological risk, while second-generation antipsychotics reduce risk but present metabolic risk. Pharmacological assistances and advancements in pharmacogenetics may lead to more personalized and precise treatment. Non-pharmacological treatment approaches have the potential to address cognitive and functional impairments experienced in schizophrenia, with neuroimaging studies confirming neuroplasticity in the frontal lobes. Emerging therapies, suggest a transformative therapeutic approach to schizophrenia. It is likely that despite advances in addressing the balance of efficacy, tolerability, and accessibility, there will always be a need for work in this area. The path forward is to consider hybrid models - comprising biological and technology-enhanced innovations - with safety considerations for psychedelics, as well as scalable digital technologies. This review highlights the importance of multi-dimensional, personalized approaches to improve outcomes for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Keywords: schizophrenia, antipsychotics, cognitive behavioral therapy, glutamate modulators, psychedelic-assisted therapy.