What Happens If a Delusional Schizophrenic Abruptly Stops Medications?

Reader’s Question

My significant other’s brother has been diagnosed a Delusional Schizophrenic. What I am wondering is if he abruptly stops taking his medication, what can and will most likely happen? Also was wondering if he can experience headaches?

Our Consulting Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

Under no circumstances should he abruptly stop is medication! If he stops his medication, gradually or abruptly, his psychotic symptoms will return full-force. His delusions will increase and he is likely to experience hallucinations and paranoia. As part of my graduate studies, I once studied re-admissions to a state psychiatric hospital. In my survey, 60% of all re-admmissions to the psychiatric hospital were caused by stopping or altering medications.

It is very common for psychiatric medications to significantly reduce the very obvious symptoms of schizophrenia — the paranoia, hallucinations, odd behaviors, etc. When that happens, it’s not uncommon for the patient to feel he/she is much better and probably doesn’t need the medication anymore. Relatives may also suggest that he/she is doing so much better that the medications are no longer needed. In truth, the patient is doing better because the medication is working well. In a similar manner, medications for epilepsy and high blood pressure can control the condition — but the medical condition is still there. Removing the medication will cause the symptoms to return.

Do not encourage this individual to alter his medications in any manner without consulting with his psychiatrist. Again, stopping psychiatric medications can be very dangerous for a patient.

As for headaches, many medications can produce headaches as a side effect. Headaches can also be produced by hundreds of other medical conditions and environmental factors. I would suggest that he also consult his physician about the cause of the headaches. He should be able to receive medications for his headaches and his antipsychotic medications without difficulties…but consult with the physician.