Supporting patients on long-term antipsychotic medication

Antipsychotic medication is an important part of the management of schizophrenia, with long-acting injectable (LAI) drugs used when adherence to oral treatment is poor. Evidence suggests that LAIs can reduce relapse rates by improving adherence, although antipsychotic therapy is associated with a range of adverse effects that can need careful monitoring. This article discusses first- and second-generation antipsychotics and outlines their common adverse effects, including extrapyramidal symptoms, cardiovascular complications, hyperprolactinaemia and tardive dyskinesia. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of nurses in primary care, including general practice nurses and advanced practitioners, who are often responsible for administering LAIs, monitoring physical health, supporting medication adherence and ensuring shared decision-making. It is concluded that strengthening the role of primary care nurses in monitoring and supporting patients prescribed antipsychotics may help improve treatment outcomes for people with schizophrenia.