Paediatric psychopharmacology in schizophrenia

The evidence for the use of antipsychotic medication in the treatment of early-onset schizophrenia (onset at age less than 18 years), based on an increasing number of randomized controlled trials, points to therapeutic efficacy with moderate-to-large effect sizes. Some of the trials, however, were of short duration and a few were industry funded. Medication with both first-generation (FGA) and second-generation (SGA) antipsychotics is also associated with considerable side effects. Nevertheless, cautious use alongside psychosocial interventions can be recommended, provided there is continued, careful monitoring.