Outcome study of first-episode schizophrenia in a developing country: quality of life and antipsychotics

Aim Quality of life has recently been emphasized in the management of schizophrenia, yet data from developing country is lacking. We explored the differences in subjective quality of life between conventional antipsychotics (CAs) and atypical antipsychotics (AAs). Methods This is a naturalistic study conducted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Patients with first-episode schizophrenia and related psychosis were recruited from Kuala Lumpur Hospital. WHOQOL-BREF, side effects of medications and other variables were assessed after 1 year of treatment in routine clinical situation. Results The study comprised 120 adults. There were no significant statistical differences between groups concerning subjective quality of life, extrapyramidal side effects and employment. Significant less benzhexol usage was reported among AAs (P < 0.001) compared to CAs and sulpiride. Conclusion Patients treated with CAs, sulpiride or AAs experienced similar quality of life, clinical and health outcomes after 1 year commencing treatment. Overall, the results are in line with other major pragmatic clinical trials. This study also found sulpiride cost-effective.