The stigma of schizophrenia can have a profound effect on patients and carers, but the pharmacy team can play a vital role by offering support and advice, as well as by ensuring that medication for the treatment of schizophrenia is used effectively and safely. Pharmacy teams can also: 

• Provide information about support groups
• Provide information from recognised sources
• Inform patients about the importance of adherence with medication
• Ensure that medication is used within the recommended dosage 
• Give advice on side effects and how to minimise or treat them (see Table 1 below). 
• Monitor physical health, suggest lifestyle advice (particularly advice on smoking cessation), dietary advice and local exercise groups.

Reflective exercise

About 50 per cent of people with schizophrenia are believed to be non-adherent with their medication. What could you do to help these patients?