[Neuroleptics and cognition].
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of atypical antipsychotics on cognitive function in schizophrenic patients under clinical routine conditions.


METHODS
Schizophrenic patients (n = 78) were evaluated on neuropsychological tests of attention, short-term- and working memory, learning, long-term memory (retention) and executive function. Data were analyzed according to medication, severity of illness and age.


RESULTS
We observed that treatment with atypical antipsychotics compared to conventional neuroleptics was significantly associated with a more favorable effect on cognitive function. Especially in short-term memory and retention a clear advantage of atypical antipsychotics could be seen.


CONCLUSIONS
Results from this study suggest that even under clinical routine conditions atypical antipsychotics have an advantage on cognitive function when compared with conventional neuroleptics.
D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D003024:Clozapine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D006220:Haloperidol / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D000077152:Olanzapine; D010890:Pirenzepine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011358:Product Surveillance, Postmarketing; D018967:Risperidone / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D010890:Pirenzepine; D003024:Clozapine; D006220:Haloperidol; D018967:Risperidone; D000077152:Olanzapine