Medication choice and psychosis Hospital readmissions: A two-year comparative study

• Published in: European psychiatry 2024-08, Vol.67 (S1), p.S288-S288
• Main Authors: Martin-Santiago, O, Calvo-Valcarcel, M, MartinezGimeno, P, Alario-Ruiz, C, Arribas-Simon, B
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Antipsychotics; Psychosis; Psychotropic drugs; Schizophrenia
• ISSN: 0924-9338; 1778-3585
• DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2024.600

IntroductionHospital readmissions in psychosis are a critical concern, with medication choice playing a vital role. Oral antipsychotics, though common, rely on patient adherence and can lead to relapses if not followed. Long-acting injectable atypical antipsychotics (LAIAs) provide an alternative, ensuring consistent medication release and reducing relapse risk due to missed doses. Studies indicate that LAIAs result in fewer readmissions due to improved adherence. Tailoring treatment to individual needs is essential. Medication choice significantly influences hospital readmission prevention in psychosis. LAIAs, which could offer greater adherence to treatment and symptom control, present a promising option. Individualized treatment decisions are a priority for long-term recovery.ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the hospital readmission rates within two years post-discharge among two groups of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders who received either oral antipsychotic treatment or LAIAs.MethodsWe collected sociodemographic and hospitalization data from 155 patients, 90 receiving oral antipsychotics and 65 receiving LAIAs, following their discharge from a psychiatric unit.ResultsThere were 90 patients in the oral treatment group, and 65 in the LAIA group, with 67.6% receiving paliperidone and 26.1% receiving aripiprazole. There were no significant differences in age or gender between the two groups. However, patients in the LAIA group had longer stays in the hospital (M=14.7; SD=10.2 vs M=11.1; SD=6.4; t(153)=2.67; p