Pharmacotherapy and Emerging Treatment Strategies for Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia (ScZ) is a mental condition in which individuals’ views of reality are distorted. Hallucinations, delusions, altered cognition, and behavior are some of the symptoms of ScZ, making it a challenging condition to deal with daily life. Recognizing the clinical manifestations of ScZ early is essential. It is caused by genetic factors, alterations in the neurotransmitter system, mitochondrial dysfunction, immunological variables, and psychological issues. Apart from these causes, traumatic events in childhood or particularly cannabis consumption during adolescence (a critical phase in the development of the brain) may influence the disease’s origin, progression, and relapse risk. Initiating early treatment immediately after the initial episode of psychosis is important for recovery. The patients usually require long-term treatment. There are multiple medications available for treating and managing symptoms associated with ScZ. These medicines have been shown to ameliorate the symptoms related to ScZ. However, several drugs show adverse side effects. This chapter discusses the well-known drugs and the mechanism of action, and some of the emerging compounds that can be used to treat ScZ effectively. Curcumin, emodin, stigmasterol, spinach, vitamins, exogenous melatonin, and cannabidiol, among other developing medicines, have all been proven to ameliorate symptoms linked with schizophrenia.