Will schizophrenia deteriorate iq intelligence overtime even with the use of atypical medications? i currently have schizophrenia. with the use of atypical medication i lead a normal life currently, but i am just concerned that schizophrenia will make me

Hello. : Hello. One of what is classified as "negative" symptoms of schizophrenia is cognitive decline with each psychotic episode. We are very blessed that atypical antipsychotics have come along because they can actually help with negative symptoms including cognitive decline. Two and a half decades ago, when i was in training, there were no medications that impacted negative symptoms. Now a person with well controlled schizoprhenia can actually have a pretty normal life. Preventing the psychotic breaks, helps to prevent from cognitive decline.

Very : Very highly intelligent people are often stricken with schizophrenia and certainly some medications can dull cognitive functions. Like all things in life it is a trade off between benefits and risks. Untreated psychotic, or for that matter many other psychiatric conditions, are devastating on the patient and his/her family, friends, and employers. Constant new treatments are under development to minimize side effects and improve efficacy. But one can do mental exercises to keep up one's faculties: crossword puzzles, reading, discussion groups, listening to intellectually stimulating programs, and so forth are helpful. Most importantly, don't cross bridges you haven't come to. If a problem seems to be developing, there are other medications and exercises to be considered. Do talk with your physician about your concerns and check out some of the books available for cognitive enhancement that has been written especially for those who in the normal aging process recognize a loss of sharpness. Use well all you have.