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This page/column contains information which may be of interest to consumers. The information is based on articles which appear in Australian Prescriber. As Australian Prescriber is written for health professionals, you should discuss any issues raised by this page/column with your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to give a more detailed answer to your questions by reading the main article.
Australian Prescriber is unable to comment on individual cases or give second opinions.
Australian Prescriber Vol. 30 No. 2 2007
Psychoses
Psychoses are a group of mental illnesses that affect people's insight. The patient has abnormal thoughts which they cannot control. A common example is schizophrenia.
Patients with psychosis usually need medication, but social support is also essential. Modern medicines can control most cases of psychosis, but the patient has to keep taking regular doses. Sometimes the medicine can be given as an injection every few weeks so the patient does not need a daily dose.
The medicines may have side effects. It is therefore important that patients have regular check-ups of their physical and mental health with their doctor.
