Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

CG178/2

Question

People who choose not to take antipsychotic medication:- What is the clinical and cost effectiveness of psychological intervention alone, compared with treatment as usual, in people with psychosis or schizophrenia who choose not to take antipsychotic medication?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

The development of alternative treatment strategies is important for the high proportion of people with psychosis and schizophrenia who choose not to take antipsychotic medication, or discontinue it because of adverse effects or lack of efficacy. There is evidence that psychological interventions (CBT and family intervention) as an adjunct to antipsychotic medication are effective in the treatment of psychosis and schizophrenia and are cost saving. However, there is little evidence for family intervention or CBT alone, without antipsychotic medication.
The programme of research should compare the clinical and cost effectiveness of psychological intervention alone (CBT and/or family intervention) with treatment as usual for people with psychosis or schizophrenia who choose not to take antipsychotic medication, using an adequately powered study with a randomised controlled design. Key outcomes should include symptoms, relapse rates, quality of life, treatment acceptability, social functioning and the cost effectiveness of the interventions.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Psychosis and schizophrenia in adults: prevention and management

Number

CG178

Date issued

February 2014

Other details