Psychiatrists Urge Continued Schizophrenia Treatment to Prevent Irreversible Brain Damage
AM730 · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Psychiatrists in Hong Kong are emphasizing the critical importance of continuous treatment for schizophrenia patients, warning that each relapse causes irreversible damage to brain tissue. Research indicates that nearly half of all patients fail to adhere to prescribed medication regimens. A young patient's case demonstrates how switching to long-acting injectable medication transformed outcomes, stabilizing symptoms and enabling a return to work after years ofrelapse.
Key Points
- Schizophrenia is a biological brain disease involving dopamine imbalance and reduced gray matter, manifesting in delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized behavior
- Dr. Wong Ming-chak, Chairman of the Hong Kong Psychosocial Rehabilitation Association, warns that each relapse causes permanent gray matter loss and cognitive decline
- Up to 49% of patients do not adhere to medication due to forgetting doses, side effects, or lack of insight into their illness
- Long-acting injectable antipsychotics remain effective for three months per dose and reduce readmission risk by 22% compared to oral medications
- A young patient treated 8 years ago achieved stable recovery after switching to long-acting injections, regaining employment and improving family relationships
Why It Matters
The findings underscore the urgent need for greater public education about schizophrenia as a medical brain disorder rather than a behavioral problem. With Hong Kong's mental health services under increasing pressure, ensuring treatment adherence through long-acting medications could prevent unnecessary disability and reduce the long-term burden on patients, families, and healthcare systems .
The findings underscore the urgent need for greater public education about schizophrenia as a medical brain disorder rather than a behavioral problem. With Hong Kong's mental health services under increasing pressure, ensuring treatment adherence through long-acting medications could prevent unnecessary disability and reduce the long-term burden on patients, families, and healthcare systems .