How fast do the drugs work?
The onset of action depends on the type of medication. Benzodiazepines such as Valium® as a sedative usually act very quickly. If they are administered into the vein, the effect is even immediate.
Antipsychotics and antidepressants, on the other hand, need a few days to weeks before they take full effect. Side effects can occur earlier, however, and patients must be informed about them. In addition, the medication must often be adjusted during the course of the illness in order to achieve the best possible and individual therapy for the patient. The drug adjustment of a schizophrenia patient is therefore usually a lengthy process.
