My wife is suffering from Schizophrenia might be. Does this disease cure permanently? If yes, then how much time it takes to cure? And which treatment is best for this disease?

Question

There are many factors which determine the prognosis of schizophrenia. If it is of recent onset, no history of similar illness in the family, no history of any medical comorbidity i.e thyroid/ diabetes/ hypertension, family support is good, patient is compliant to treatment; then the prognosis is good and cure is seen many a times. But in case of long standing untreated schizophrenia with high family history, poor compliance to medicine, presense of other comorbidities and poor support system; the prognosis is guarded with less chance of complete cure; although recovery is possible. Medications are the treatment of choice, usually with antipsychotics. Apart from medication; adjunctive psychotherapy and family therapy produce good result.

Tamoghna Bandyopadhyay · Accepted Answer

There are many factors which determine the prognosis of schizophrenia. If it is of recent onset, no history of similar illness in the family, no history of any medical comorbidity i.e thyroid/ diabetes/ hypertension, family support is good, patient is compliant to treatment; then the prognosis is good and cure is seen many a times. But in case of long standing untreated schizophrenia with high family history, poor compliance to medicine, presense of other comorbidities and poor support system; the prognosis is guarded with less chance of complete cure; although recovery is possible. Medications are the treatment of choice, usually with antipsychotics. Apart from medication; adjunctive psychotherapy and family therapy produce good result.

Jagadeesan M.S. · Answer

Schizophrenia per se is a major mental disorder, which when chronic is present for lifetime. But with modern medicines, and psychosocial rehabilitation and regular psychiatrist review, one can lead a normal or near normal life in most of the persons. So it would be wise for you to get her treated regularly and follow the psychiatrist advise. It is also like a medical disorder like diabetes or so, when you require long term treatment. All the best.