Assessment of compliance and relapse in patients with schizophrenia before and after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic

Objective The aim of this study was to assess the frequency and correlates of relapse among patients with schizophrenia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This retrospective study included 90 adults who met DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia. The participants were evaluated using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Compliance Rating Scale (CRS) and World Health Organisation Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) before and after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic. Results The mean score of CRS was decreased after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic compared to before COVID 19 ( p < 0.001). The mean total score of PANSS scale and the mean positive subscale (P) score had increased after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic compared to before COVID 19 ( p < 0.001). Following up the news about COVID-19 regularly and decreased level of family support after the pandemic onset were associated with lower CRS scores and higher PANSS scores. In addition, the presence of infection or death with COVID-19 among family members and lower CRS scores were associated with higher scores on PANSS positive subscale. Conclusions The relapse rate had increased among patients with schizophrenia during COVID-19 pandemic. Non-compliance with medications and lack of family support were the main correlates of relapse in schizophrenia.