The International College of Neuropsychopharmacology (CINP), has endorsed the INTEGRATE international guidelines for the algorithmic treatment of schizophrenia. These guidelines recognise the diverse needs of people living with schizophrenia worldwide and the evolving landscape of psychiatric research. They were developed with CINP members and experts from across the globe to create comprehensive, evidence-based treatment guidelines for schizophrenia. They are the result of an extensive review of current research, expert consensus, and lived experience insights. These guidelines aim to provide clinicians, people with schizophrenia and their carers with clear, practical, and culturally sensitive recommendations for pharmacological management of schizophrenia, emphasizing early intervention, consumer involvement, and management of side effects to optimize outcomes.
The guidelines emphasize the importance of a dynamic and individualized approach to treating schizophrenia, recommending that D2 partial agonists (e.g. aripiprazole, brexpiprazole, cariprazine) be used as first line antipsychotics, early use of clozapine for people with treatment-resistance, proactive management of metabolic health from the outset, and timely assessment of treatment response. They highlight the value of symptom domain-specific interventions and the need to mitigate side effects to improve adherence. Additionally, the guidelines underscore the significance of involving people with schizophrenia and their supports in decision-making processes and adopting flexible treatment strategies to maximize therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks.
To read more, these guidelines are available at this link.
INTEGRATE International Guidelines for the Algorithmic Treatment of Schizophrenia
