Measuring outcome in schizophrenia: Differences among the atypical antipsychotics

The advent of the atypical antipsychotics marked a new era in the history of the treatment of psychotic disorders. To evaluate the published literature about the available atypical antipsychotics-clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine - and select the most appropriate treatment for specific patients, physicians need to understand the outcome measures used in clinical studies, the pharmacologic differences that explain varying side effect profiles, and pharmacoeconomic assessments that are used in the decision-making process. While the atypical antipsychotics have established efficacy in the overall treatment of schizophrenia, they may differ in their effects on factors such as cognitive function, overall quality of life, adverse events, and hospitalization status. Each of these factors should be considered when weighing treatment options for an individual patient.