Positive and negative symptoms for schizophrenia or any psychotic disorder?

Question

My question is can people who have schizophrenia be completely relieved of positive symptoms due to taking anti psychotics, but still have negative symptoms linger? In all my reading I haven't found the answer. So if someone who knows could help me out it would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Answer 1

I hear voices and have been on several AP meds. I'm not sz but have had many of the same symptoms. Hearing voices can bring out paranoia and negativity.

AP meds can help with a lot of symptoms. Although every meds effects everyone differently. Sometimes while on these meds the symptoms will come and go. I personally don't think they will stop every symptom. I'm in a support group for people who hear voices and many of the members are sz. They might have some days that are better then others and as the get older they learn how to cope with the bad ones and not give in to them. I also think that sz symptoms changes throughout a persons life.

Hope that helped and made some sense.

Take care

Answer 2

Yes, schizophrenics often only receive treatment for positive symptoms.  Some anti-psychotics such as clozapine, risperdal, and olanzapine are good for both.

Answer 3

It does happen. Sometimes, negative symptoms can take a little while longer to respond to medication.  

Answer 4

Yes, absolutely. Residual Schizophrenia is designed as exactly that -- absence of hallucinations and other positive symptoms, with some emotional withdrawal.