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Start off with a low dose high-potency antipsychotic medication. |
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Treat side effects of antipsychotic medication. |
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If no positive response in one to two weeks with a low dose high-potency antipsychotic medication, increase the dosage. However keep the dosage as low as possible while still controlling the symptoms. |
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If no positive response after four weeks try a new antipsychotic medication. |
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If Akathisia develops try Inderal, Valium, or Ativan. |
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A psychiatrist should see the patient at least once a month. With regular examination for Tardive Dyskinesia. |
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Guideline for length of drug treatment:
One episode: One year.
Two episode: Two or more years. |