Treating schizophrenia: changes in attitudes, compliance, prescribing

In order to reduce the emotional, physical and financial costs associated with schizophrenia - costs experienced by the patient, the physician and family and friends - it is necessary to evaluate the way in which schizophrenia is treated. The attitudes and perceptions towards treatment, from both a patient and physician perspective, can be seen progressing and changing as new drugs emerge and trends in prescribing are altered. These changes were discussed at the 13th Annual Congress of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology [Munich, Germany; September 2000].