An update on current treatment strategies and emerging agents for the management of schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic neuropsychiatric disorder that has a significant impact on the functioning and quality of life of individuals affected by the disease. It affects 0.6% to 1.9% of individuals within the United States, and currently there is no cure. Guidelines recommend a combined treatment approach with both pharmacologic agents and psychological interventions for first-episode psychosis, acute exacerbations, and relapse prevention. Presently, multiple agents are available for the treatment of schizophrenia; however, the majority do not address negative symptoms and cognitive dysfunction, with many patients having debilitating residual symptoms, difficulties with adherence, and drug-related adverse effects. To address these concerns, new research evaluating investigational therapies has been undertaken to examine novel treatment strategies. This review summarizes the schizophrenia treatment guidelines, current treatment strategies, and emerging agents for the management of schizophrenia.