Poor adherence to therapy is one of the main obstacles to treatment
effectiveness in schizophrenia. It is the main determinant of relapse,
hospitalization, symptom persistence, and poor psychosocial functioning
and outcome. Adherence to treatment is affected by various factors
related to the disease characteristics, to the patient him- or herself,
to the treatment, and to the therapeutic relationship. Some of these
factors are modifiable, and both pharmacological and non-pharmacological
strategies have been developed for this purpose. This book addresses the
different aspects of adherence to treatment in schizophrenia and related
disorders in a systematic but easy-to-use manual format. Chapters focus
on a full range of issues, including pharmacological and
non-pharmacological strategies to enhance adherence and continuity of
care, relevant psychological factors, the importance of the
patient-doctor relationship, and the need for an alliance with other
care-givers. Adherence to Antipsychotics in Schizophrenia will be an
invaluable asset for all who are involved in the care of patients with
schizophrenia.