Psychological factors and neuroleptic therapy: Some neglected issues

Abstract

In this paper we briefly review the literature on the psychological consequences of neuroleptic medication and on the role of psychological factors in determining neuroleptic response. We focus in particular on patients' subjective experiences of neuroleptics and on factors influencing compliance with medication. Future areas of potentially fruitful research which we identify include (a) the identification of psychological mediators of neuroleptic response; (b) the use of psychological measures to monitor treatment response and thus ensure optimumly targeted medication; and (c) the study of interactions between medication and psychosocial therapies.