Smoking cessation in schizophrenia. General practice guidelines.

BACKGROUND: The rate of cigarette smoking in people with schizophrenia is up to three times that of the general population, and causes much ill health and high mortality rates. There are physiological and pharmacological interactions between the symptoms of schizophrenia, antipsychotic medication and smoking which contribute to this high rate and make it more difficult for those with schizophrenia to cease smoking. OBJECTIVE: This article aims to inform general practitioners of the extent and nature of the problem, and ways to assist people with schizophrenia to reduce/cease smoking. DISCUSSION: Patients with schizophrenia often experience physical, financial and social disadvantages because of their illness. Actively encouraging and assisting smoking reduction/cessation is important to improve their quality of life as well as longevity.