Psychosocial treatment with or without antipsychotic medication in first-episode psychosis: What have we learned from the STAGES trial about the risks and benefits?

Abstract

STAGES trial was a triple-blind noninferiority trial that investigated intensive psychosocial treatment with or without low-dose antipsychotics in young people with first-episode psychosis with a short duration of untreated psychosis, who were low-risk and had stable family support. Participants received cognitive behavioural case management combined with either low-dose risperidone/paliperidone or placebo. Only 7% of the screened individuals were included (N = 90), with just 30% completing the protocol, reflecting trial challenges. Both groups showed significant improvements in social and occupational functioning (primary outcome) and symptoms at 6 months, with placebo demonstrating noninfe..