Cognitive changes in acute schizophrenia with brief neuroleptic treatment

Abstract

Acutely decompensated, hospitalized schizophrenic patients (44) who were placed on a double-blind basis for 10 days in 3 treatment groups: patients given high, moderate and standard doses of haloperidol, were studied. To assess changes in the patients'' concentration, abstract thinking and ability to respond appropriately, 2 clinical rating scales and 3 psychological tests were administered. Patients in all 3 treatment groups showed similar and significant improvements according to both clinical and psychological ratings after haloperidol administration. Normal control subjects showed no change in psychological test scores over time. Brief treatment with neuroleptics produces measurable improvement in schizophrenic thinking.