ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Few studies described the actual prescribing practices of second-generation antipsychotics and their adherence to the guidelines. METHODS: Our study included 90 patients among whom was prescribed a second-generation antipsychotic in our hospital between May 3rd and June 27th 2004. RESULTS: The proportion of each prescribed drug was: olanzapine, 57%; risperidone, 28%; amisulpride, 13%; and clozapine, 2%. Schizophrenia and other psychoses represented 75% of the treatment indications. Achievement of the pretherapeutic exams ranged from 23% for serum lipids to 96% for blood pressure. The initial dose was that recommended in 73% of the patients. CONCLUSION: The significant part of the prescription of olanzapine is shown in 2004 in our hospital. Guidelines appear respected except for some pretherapeutic exams.
