P. Mohr, Czech Republic
National Institute of Mental Health Clinical Dept.Presenter of 4 Presentations
Live Q&A
Live Q&A
NPA0004 - Experiences and Projections for the Future of Research, Training and Other Academic Activities: Will It Be the Same?
ABSTRACT
Abstract Body
The global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic with subsequently imposed restrictions and lockdowns also radically disrupted academic life. Many research projects involving recruitment of human subjects were abruptly put on hold, educational activities have moved into online trainings, scientific meetings have been transformed into virtual events. Social distancing does not restrict only everyday human contact but also limits direct exchange of clinical, educational, and research experiences, professional and academic networking, sharing ideas. Besides all the drawbacks, does the current situation also bring any advantages? Every challenge results in new opportunities. Although the online congresses will most likely never fully replace real-life experience, it was found that many work meetings can be held more efficiently via online communication. Saving time, cutting costs of travel and accommodation, plus other expenses, may help to allocate limited resources where needed. Similarly, while practical medical education and training cannot be substituted for remote broadcasting, many theoretical presentations can. More importantly, epidemic of COVID-19 is a unique opportunity for mental health research, to study individual and population consequences of the virus, its impact on psychiatric patients. It is still early to predict whether and when research, training, meetings, and other academic activities return back to “normal”, but appears that some changes are here to stay.
W0063 - Antipsychotics for Elderly with Psychosis: Deprescribe or Continue?
ABSTRACT
Abstract Body
Maintenance treatment with antipsychotics remains the key principle in the long-term management of psychotic disorders. For some patients, it means life-long use of medication. Continuous drug administration helps to prevent relapses, maintain remission, and achieve functional recovery. Moreover, epidemiological data suggest that antipsychotic treatment significantly reduces mortality rates of schizophrenia patients. On the other hand, some authors argue that antipsychotic drugs may lose its efficacy over time, their long-term exposure results in more harm than benefit. Especially elderly patients are more sensitive to side effects. Several studies which followed-up patient cohorts over the span of several decades found that there are schizophrenia patients who can achieve good functional outcome and full recovery without antipsychotic treatment. Therefore, it is paramount to identify those individuals, particularly among elderly psychotic patients, who can thrive and benefit from timely antipsychotic discontinuation.