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Exploring Mechanisms and Management of Drug Tolerance and Resistance in Schizophrenia
- 1 ZhuHai College Science and Technology, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
* Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a multifaceted mental disorder affecting approximately 1% of the global population, significantly disrupting cognitive function, emotion, and behaviour. Antipsychotic medications are the primary treatment, targeting neurotransmitter regulation to alleviate symptoms. However, long-term use often leads to drug tolerance and resistance, diminishing treatment effectiveness and potentially exacerbating the patient's condition. This article examines the mechanisms and contributing factors associated with drug tolerance and resistance in schizophrenia, focusing on adaptive changes in neurotransmitter systems, alterations in drug metabolism, and neural remodeling. It explores the interplay of biological, environmental, and treatment-related influences on therapeutic outcomes and identifies common patterns in tolerance and resistance manifestations. Furthermore, the article proposes practical management strategies, including drug rotation, dosage adjustments, combination therapies, and the utilization of next-generation antipsychotics. By providing clinicians with insights into tailoring treatment approaches to individual patient needs, this study aims to improve the overall management of schizophrenia. A deeper understanding of drug tolerance and resistance is essential for optimizing treatment efficacy and enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals. Future research directions are also suggested to better elucidate the genetic underpinnings of these phenomena, paving the way for personalized treatment strategies.
Keywords
Schizophrenia, drug tolerance, drug resistance, antipsychotic medications, treatment strategies
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Cite this article
Tang,H. (2025). Exploring Mechanisms and Management of Drug Tolerance and Resistance in Schizophrenia. Theoretical and Natural Science,69,202-207.
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The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study will be available from the authors upon reasonable request.
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Volume title: Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Modern Medicine and Global Health
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