Objectives

Negative symptoms of schizophrenia can have a significant impact on the course of the disease. Successful treatment can significantly improve patient functioning and facilitate recovery. Unfortunately, treatment outcomes for psychotic (positive) symptoms remain superior, making the management of negative symptoms one of the greatest current challenges. This paper presents therapeutic approaches that may play a role in the treatment of patients with schizophrenia and contribute to the reduction of negative symptoms.

Literature review

Among the pharmacological methods, antipsychotics drugs, in additional to their basic action, can effectively treat negative symptoms. In some cases, medications used in the treatment of other psychiatric disorders may be used. Furthermore, research is ongoing into novel agents with atypical mechanisms of action that may influence negative symptoms. In addition to pharmacotherapy, which remains the primary treatment for schizophrenia, psychological interventions may contribute to improved mental state and functioning. Psychotherapies designed for individuals with schizophrenia, cognitive remediation therapies, and social skills training can provide tangible benefits in daily life. Promoting a healthy lifestyle, including physical activity and healthy dietary habits, constitutes an important component of treatment support. Neurostimulation may also exert a positive effect on negative symptoms.

Conclusions

Therapeutic solutions that yield improved outcomes in the treatment of negative symptoms are still being sought. Currently, in addition to appropriately selected pharmacological treatment, combining medication with other therapeutic interventions may provide additional benefits.