Schizoaffective Disorder Questions

First, we need to be sure of diagnosis before commenting on medications. But, at the outset. Does'nt make sense giving antipsychotics and antidepressants considering the doses in which they have been prescribed.

First, we need to be sure of diagnosis before commenting on medications. But, at the outset. Does'nt make sense giving antipsychotics and antidepressants considering the doses in which they have been prescribed.

In fact this is a standout feature of schizophrenia and can ideally be resolved in therapy. Anyway, you must always combine medication with therapy for the best results. The counseling gives you an avenue to work with your emotional issues and you will develop skills in coping with the everyday challenges that life throws at you. You need to be occupied, and fit into a routine of interesting activities every day. Yoga and meditation is also necessary to train your brain to be disciplined and rem...more

Dear lybrate-user,
since how long your mother is suffering from schizophrenia? Was it well controlled with allopathic medicines before taking herbalife? Did the symptoms of schizophrenia became serious after herbalife? Both of you are taking herbalife as treatment for psychosis or for weight reduction? Question yourself and with the answers, get back to allopathic medicine psychiatrist for treatment of schizophrenia. Along with uninterrupted long term antipsychotic treatment, with lifestyle ...more

The herbal products have no effect on the psychosis and are only a waste of time and money. You need to take allopathic mecications

Ssris are the best available drug and you can start low dose of ssri and gradually titrate to reduce dose dependent side effects. Sexual side effects are not so common as you think. It occurs in 1-2 patients out of 10. So, there is a bright chance you might not have major side effects. You got to take this small risk considering risk and benifit ratio. You will need a preliminary evaluation before starting medications. So, you can consult me online or any other good psychiatrist nearby before st...more

Sizodon does cause weight gain but the benifits of taking medications far outweighs the risks of not taking them. So, don't discontinue medications as long as doctor don't say so. You will have to cut down on your food intake and also start exercising regularly.

Can try hiking up ssris, fluoxetine upto 80 mg and if these are episodic behaviors, then .maintenance ect can be tried. But with caution. But ect I would not have recommended if another antipsychotic was open as an option. Consult a psychiatrist for nearby for discussing best options. This decision is better taken after detailed assessment of impulsive behavior and trying out some behavioral methods would be possible only if patient is available for assessment.

I am sorry to hear about your concern but will be happy to assist you.
You can treat your child's symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity without having a diagnosis of attention deficit disorder. Options to start with include getting your child into therapy, implementing a better diet and exercise plan, and modifying the home environment to minimize distractions.
Let's connect over a call so that we can discuss your concern in details and make a suitable treatment plan fo...more

Yes, she has serious condition and will be on medication for a long time. But she should go for therapy sessions too. You have not mentioned her age and that could be significant to her recovery too: the younger she is, the better the prognosis. There may be some genetic factors too. She should be made to cooperate because she may not realize and tend to act out and become uncooperative in therapy. In therapy she will learn a lot of skills, tools and techniques to cope with her condition. Any wa...more