[Impact of the interview technique on the statement of effects and side-effects of antipsychotic agents].
OBJECTIVE
To clarify to what extent subjectively-stated effects and side-effects differ between conventional and atypical neuroleptic agents and to what degree they depend on the method of questioning.


METHODS
Effects and side effects of antipsychotic medication in 136 schizophrenia patients were studied through naturalistic observation over a period of 12 months (3 measurement time points) and information sought in 2 different ways: firstly, patients gave spontaneous information on the effects/side effects; they were then asked in detail on the basis of a checklist.


RESULTS
Patients gave far less information spontaneously than when asked questions. There were no differences between typical and atypical antipsychotic agents in terms of effects or side effects. Patients, who could give spontaneous information on side effects, but not on positive effects of their neuroleptic agents, discontinued their medication more frequently in the further course.


CONCLUSIONS
Information given by patients represents and important and usable source of information, but it can be influenced by the nature of questioning. A fundamental recommendation of the prescription of typical or atypical antipsychotic agents is not possible on the basis of the data.
Bayer
Wiltrud
W
Tübinger Forschungsgruppe Sozialpsychiatrie der Universitätsklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie Tübingen.
Längle
Gerhard
G
D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015331:Cohort Studies; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology; D010351:Patient Discharge; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012650:Self Disclosure; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents