What is it about?
Controversy remains regarding the relative efficacy and side effects of antipsychotics. Major schizophrenia treatment guideline recommendations on efficacy differences are particularly vague. The SINO study clarifies the differences in efficacy and safety among antipsychotics for acute schizophrenia, addressing gaps in guidelines and resolving ongoing debates. The findings establish clear drug hierarchies, with potential to update clinical practices and global treatment recommendations.
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Why is it important?
This study is the largest randomized controlled trial of antipsychotic medications conducted to date. It provides a head-to-head comparison of seven commonly used drugs in acutely ill patients with schizophrenia. Evidence of this kind is crucial for updating clinical guidelines on the use of antipsychotics during the acute phase, and the findings have the potential to directly influence and improve clinical practice.
Perspectives
This publication marks an important milestone in my research journey. As one of the main contributors to the SINO trial, I had the opportunity to work closely with outstanding colleagues from both China and Germany. I hope our work will help improve the treatment of schizophrenia and provide new evidence to guide clinical decisions.
Guorui Zhao
Peking University Sixth Hospital
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Efficacy and Tolerability of Seven Antipsychotic Drugs in Acutely Ill Patients With Schizophrenia: A Randomized, Multicenter, Assessor-Blinded Trial, American Journal of Psychiatry, October 2025, American Psychiatric Association,
DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.20250111.
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