New-Onset Schizophrenia: Pharmacologic Treatment

The management of new-onset schizophrenia represents an enormous challenge and opportunity. The evaluation and treatment decisions that are implemented at this phase of illness can have an important impact on subsequent course and outcome. It is important to consider factors that are specific to managing first-episode patients when choosing medication, establishing a treatment plan, and evaluating both therapeutic response and potential adverse reactions. Maintenance treatment strategies and approaches to facilitating adherence with clinical recommendations are also important issues in this context.