A Comparative Study of Schizophrenic and Medical Inpatients as Informed Drug Consumers

Fifty schizophrenic inpatients receiving antipsychotic medications were evaluated as informed and or consenting drug consumers by means of structured interview, in comparison with a matched group of medical inpatients receiving nonpsychotrpic drugs. Medical patients were better informed about positive aspects of medication, such as relationship of drug treatment to a specific diagnosis and not better informed about positive aspects of medication, such as name and dose. Schizophrenic patients, however, were significantly better informed about side effects and risks. Although both groups felt that their medication had helped them, 84% of the medical patients but only 72% of the schizophrenic patients said they would take the medication if they had choice. The fact that schizophrenic inpatients readly shared their reluctance to take medication with an interviewer may offer an avenue for detection and intervention improve prospects for outpatient compliance.