It is generally accepted that neuroleptics are not a cure for or complete answer to schizophrenia, and it is also generally accepted that they have many and serious side-effects. It is not true that their therapeutic effect is the consequence only of their sedative properties, or of their ability to immobilize patients both physically and volitionally. There is no reason to think that benzodiazepines have a significant role to play in the treatment of schizophrenia. Doctors have the duty to weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of all treatments; even when this has not always been done well in the past, there is no reason not to do so now. It cannot be done without an appreciation of the natural course of the condition to be treated, and of the alternative treatments.
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