Assoc Prof Takeuchi Hiroyoshi

Plenary Speaker

After graduating from Chiba University School of Medicine in 2001, Dr Takeuchi joined Keio University School of Medicine as a clinician-researcher.

After completing his PhD programme at Keio University School of Medicine in 2012, Dr Takeuchi worked as a postdoctoral/clinical fellow at Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto until 2017. His primary research interest is optimising antipsychotic treatment for schizophrenia across the illness stage (i.e., first-episode to treatment-resistant schizophrenia) and the treatment phase (i.e., acute to maintenance treatment) to improve cognitive impairment and negative symptoms, core but treatment resistant features in schizophrenia, while minimising side effects.

Abstract

Plenary Title: Optimising Antipsychotic Treatment in Acute and Maintenance Phases of Schizophrenia

Date: 19 November 2024, Tuesday
Time: 11.30 AM

Antipsychotics play a crucial role not only in improving symptoms during the acute phase but also in preventing relapse during the maintenance phase of schizophrenia. However, treatment continuity faces challenges, such as poor medication adherence, often due to limited illness insight and the adverse effects of antipsychotics. In this context, optimising antipsychotic treatment throughout both the acute and maintenance phases of schizophrenia is essential, aiming to maximise efficacy while minimising side effects. Strategies for optimisation include dose adjustments (increasing or decreasing doses), once-daily dosing regimens, and the use of long-acting injectable formulations. In this presentation, I will discuss each of these strategies, supported by recent evidence, including findings from our own studies.