title: Adverse effects of medication for schizophrenia.
abstract: Numbers of older people with schizophrenia are likely to increase with the ageing population and they require special attention when considering care and treatment. Medication is the mainstay of treatment for patients with schizophrenia, to control hallucinations and delusions. Older people are more prone to the adverse effects of antipsychotic medication, particularly torso movements and buccal twitches. They are also more likely to be prescribed inappropriate doses and types of medication. Where drugs are required, smaller doses should be prescribed.