Lithium. Lithium, ordinarily used for bipolar disorder, is useful for some schizophrenic patients. It appears to help those with fewer negative symptoms and without a family history of schizophrenia. However, there are no reliable criteria to predict who will benefit.
Anti-Epileptic Drugs. Drugs ordinarily prescribed for epilepsy -- such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), gabapentin (Neurontin), lamotrigine (Lamictal), or others -- are occasionally used in combination with antipsychotic drugs for patients who do not respond to standard drugs.
Estrogen Replacement in Women. Estrogen may be nerve-protective. Some investigators have proposed using estrogen therapy to help with cognitive impairment. However, evidence is weak, and cancer and cardiovascular risks of estrogen therapy must be considered.
Herbs and Supplements
Generally, manufacturers of herbal remedies and dietary supplements do not need FDA approval to sell their products. Just like a drug, herbs and supplements can affect the body's chemistry, and therefore have the potential to produce side effects that may be harmful. There have been a number of reported cases of serious and even lethal side effects from herbal products. Always check with your doctor before using any herbal remedies or dietary supplements.
The following are special concerns for people taking natural remedies for schizophrenia:
- Gingko biloba can increase the risk for bleeding and interact with anti-clotting medications when used at high doses. Commercial gingko preparations have also been reported to contain colchicine, which can be harmful to pregnant women and people with kidney or liver problems.
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