title: Rationale for clinical interventions in prodromal psychosis. Are such interventions safe?
abstract: We compare the reported side effects of medication from the trials of prodromal psychosis treatment. We note that the side effects of antipsychotics are those described in the usual pharmacology of these substances and that the severity of side effects are dependent on dosage, with more side effects at higher doses. We report on the search for alternative compounds for the treatment of prodromal psychosis. Omega fatty acids and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy are certainly good adjuvant treatments for suspected prodromal psychosis. With further evidence they may be considered appropriate to use as monotherapy, particularly in the early prodrome. Treatment of prodromal psychosis continues to present a number of risks; therefore the decision to treat ultimately must depend on the symptoms presented by the individual.
authors.affiliation: South Essex Partnership University Foundation Trust, Bedford Hospital, Bedford, UK. ma393@cam.ac.uk
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Agius
authors.forename: Sophie
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Butler
mesh_terms: D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D061345:Early Medical Intervention; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D016651:Lithium Carbonate / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D061214:Patient Safety; D062706:Prodromal Symptoms; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3; D016651:Lithium Carbonate