A 29-year-old man presents with 3 months of auditory hallucinations, persecutory delusions, social withdrawal and deteriorating self-care. There is no...

Question

A 29-year-old man presents with 3 months of auditory hallucinations, persecutory delusions, social withdrawal and deteriorating self-care. There is no substance use or medical cause identified. What is the most appropriate initial pharmacological treatment?

Accepted Answer

Start a second-generation antipsychotic such as risperidone at standard starting dose

Answer

Start a first-generation antipsychotic such as haloperidol at high dose

Answer

Start benzodiazepines alone

Answer

Start lithium carbonate

Answer

Start electroconvulsive therapy as first-line

au-amc MCQ (SBA): First-episode schizophrenia

A 29-year-old man presents with 3 months of auditory hallucinations, persecutory delusions, social withdrawal and deteriorating self-care. There is no substance use or medical cause identified. What is the most appropriate initial pharmacological treatment?