Lessening the Side Effect Burden to Improve Adherence Among Individuals With Schizophrenia

In the treatment of schizophrenia, whereas clinicians tend to put great emphasis on symptom resolution and functioning as treatment goals, patients put greater value on well-being and quality of life. Many patients may experience more distress related to adverse effects than clinicians realize. Adverse effects are a frequent reason for nonadherence, which may lead to negative treatment outcomes, including structural brain changes, worsening symptoms, and increased treatment resistance when medication is resumed. By evaluating adherence and patients’ reasons for nonadherence, clinicians can try to address problems such as adverse events that prevent patients from maintaining their medication regimens.