The British Journal of Psychiatry (2009) 195: S7-S12. doi: 10.1192/bjp.195.52.s7
© 2009 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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REVIEW ARTICLES

Historical perspective on antipsychotic long-acting injections

D. A. W. Johnson, MD, MSc, FRCPsych, DPM, DRCOG

formerly University Hospital of South Manchester, University of Manchester, UK. Email: donald.awjohnson{at}btinternet.com

Declaration of interest

None.

Background

Clinical experience has shown considerable potential benefits from long-term continuous medication for chronic or relapsing forms of schizophrenia. These benefits have not always been realised.

Aims

To review the research literature in order to understand the problems of long-term medication and use of antipsychotic oral medication and long-acting injections (LAIs), and to place these in an historical context.

Method

Review of literature.

Results

Research showed that the potential success of LAI therapy depends on the quality of the follow-up service.

Conclusions

Following the advent of second-generation oral antipsychotics confidence in the use of LAIs has eroded and that mistakes made in LAI use during the past century may be repeated.