title: Switching between second-generation antipsychotics: why and how?
abstract: The introduction of second-generation antipsychotics represents an important advance in the treatment of schizophrenia. Although these drugs are generally very effective, not all patients respond in the same way. Partial response with persistent positive and negative symptoms and residual symptoms may force physicians to change antipsychotic medication. As more and more second-generation antipsychotics are introduced, the need for practical guidelines on switching these medications becomes increasingly important. In this article we provide a short summary of the second-generation antipsychotics, focusing on efficacy, adverse effect profile and safety. Indications for switching antipsychotic medication are outlined, as well as recommendations when switching is disadvantageous. Three basic switching strategies (abrupt, gradual and overlapping switching) and their potential risks and benefits are described. We review the available evidence concerning techniques, problems and consequences when switching from one second-generation antipsychotic agent to another and discuss potential difficulties.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biological Psychiatry, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, A-6020, Austria.
authors.forename: Monika
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Edlinger
authors.forename: Susanne
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Baumgartner
authors.forename: Nadja
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Eltanaihi-Furtmüller
authors.forename: Martina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hummer
authors.forename: W Wolfgang
authors.initials: WW
authors.lastname: Fleischhacker
mesh_terms: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000075202:Contraindications; D004341:Drug Evaluation; D006801:Humans; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents