A 24-year-old man presents with a 6-month history of social withdrawal, auditory hallucinations, and persecutory delusions. He has no substance use. A...

Question

A 24-year-old man presents with a 6-month history of social withdrawal, auditory hallucinations, and persecutory delusions. He has no substance use. According to Canadian Schizophrenia Guidelines, what is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Start an antipsychotic medication and arrange early intervention in psychosis services

Answer

Begin benzodiazepines only for anxiety and monitor

Answer

Offer psychotherapy alone without medication

Answer

Delay treatment until symptoms persist for at least 1 year

Answer

Use clozapine as first-line agent in all new cases

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): First-episode schizophrenia

A 24-year-old man presents with a 6-month history of social withdrawal, auditory hallucinations, and persecutory delusions. He has no substance use. According to Canadian Schizophrenia Guidelines, what is the most appropriate initial management?