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An international team of experts from 30 countries has unveiled new global guidelines for the treatment of schizophrenia, aiming to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The recommendations, published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal, are known as the International Guidelines for Algorithmic Treatment (INTEGRATE).
University of Queensland Professor of Psychiatry, Dan Siskind, highlighted the significance of these guidelines, stating they offer a “globally relevant” approach to managing the complex mental illness. “Schizophrenia imposes a significant health care burden worldwide with substantial physical health comorbidities,” Professor Siskind explained. “The new guidelines include shared patient-doctor decision making, and tailored individual treatment, making it more likely people stick with treatment. They offer hope and will improve the quality of life for patients and their families.”
Key aspects of the INTEGRATE guidelines include a practical, step-by-step approach to medication management, designed for global applicability. The guidelines emphasize faster intervention when treatments are ineffective, a focus on individual symptoms, and early management of side effects. This approach aims to provide patients with the right treatment sooner, leading to improved outcomes and reduced risk of associated physical health problems.
Addressing the common issue of medication side effects, Professor Siskind noted that antipsychotics can cause various adverse effects, including weight gain, diabetes, high cholesterol, movement problems, hormonal changes, and sleepiness. These side effects can significantly impact treatment adherence, as patients may discontinue medication due to discomfort or health concerns. The new guidelines stress the importance of shared decision-making and proactive side effect management to improve treatment adherence.
Looking ahead, Professor Siskind pointed to promising new treatments, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which may help manage weight gain caused by antipsychotics. Additionally, a new medication called xanomeline-trospium offers a different mechanism of action, potentially benefiting patients who have not responded well to existing treatments. Researchers are also developing tools to predict individual treatment responses.
“These new guidelines offer hope,” Professor Siskind stated. “They show that treatment can be tailored to the individual, with careful attention to both mental and physical health. For people living with schizophrenia and their families, it’s a reminder that their voice matters in treatment decisions. For doctors, it’s a call to act early, listen closely, and work together with patients. Better treatment is not just about controlling symptoms—it’s about improving quality of life.”
The INTEGRATE guidelines are a product of collaboration between researchers from multiple institutions, including the University of Oxford.
More information: Robert A McCutcheon et al, INTEGRATE: international guidelines for the algorithmic treatment of schizophrenia, The Lancet Psychiatry (2025). DOI: 10.1016/S2215-0366(25)00031-8
Journal information: The Lancet Psychiatry
Disclaimer: This article is based on information provided and should not be considered medical advice. Individuals with schizophrenia or concerns about their mental health should consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Medical information is continually being updated, and it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure you have the most up to date information.
