ANTIPSYCHOTIC POLYPHARMACY: PROS AND CONS

Abstract

This review addresses the problem of antipsychotic polypharmacy. Currently there is a large gap between the results of evidenceObased medicine and daily practice of a doctor concerning combined antipsychotics use. Based on the literature review an overview of the causes and negative consequences of antipsychotic polypharmacy is presented, the cases in which it is justified. The results of the research allow to recommend a combined antipsychotic medication in patients who have failed at least three courses of monotherapy, including clozapine; if possible, to augment antipsychotic therapy with other classes of drugs; when polypharmacy is inevitable, take doses (risperidone and chlorpromazine equivalents) into account. It is worth emphasizing that the majority of patients undergoing a course of combined antipsychotic medication can safely transfer to antipsychotic monotherapy, thereby reducing the cost of treatment and increasing compliance.