Doctors’ Answers to “Frequently Asked Questions” – Schizophrenia
These comments are made for the purpose of discussion and should NOT be used as
recommendations for or against therapies or other treatments. An individual patient is
always advised to consult their own physician.
[posted 03/15/2000]
Question: I have read studies questioning the smoking of pot to cause schizophrenia. How long would you expect symptoms to resolve once the person stops smoking pot….if the symptoms were being caused by the drug?
Answer: I wouldn’t expect to see any changes from this treatment.
[posted 11/18/1999]
Question: My mother-in-law is taking several medications prescribed by two differant doctors. The meds are Risperidone, Prozac, Seroquel and Naltrexone. She is a druged state at all times. She is diagnosed with schizoprenia and obsessive/compulsive behavior. She is on a fixed income, receiving only a SS disability check each month, therefore her doctors are appointed by the state. I am afraid she has fallen between the cracks and they are letting her go without proper diagnosis and medication. I feel she is over medicated. I would appreciate any input from you on how we should handle this situation. Thank you.
Answer: I’d call the doctors and relate your concerns. If this fails, you will need to pay for a second opinion.
Schizo-affective disorder medication
dosage [posted 1/4/99]
Question: My daughter has been diagnosed with schizo-affective disorder and has
just been placed on Seroquel. What is a recommended dosage? Our doctor did not have a
dosage level and started her at 25 mg to increase to 50 mg. Research literature shows a
range up to 700 mg, but indicated 300 mg as most successful range. Any experience with
this new drug? My daughter is 21 years old, moderately compliant on the medications,
formerly on xyprexia, but the side effects were bad.
Answer:One usually starts low and works up. 25 mg would be low for most
patients, but it is very individual, especially in terms of side effects.
Sociological Effects
Question: What are the sociological effects of schizophrenia?
Answer: Not my field. You’ll need to ask a sociologist.
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