Iloperidone for schizophrenia.

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD: No existing antipsychotic adequately controls all symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Also, no antipsychotic adequately benefits most patients with this disorder. Finally, the safety and tolerability of each antipsychotic frequently dictate the choice of agent.

AREAS COVERED IN THE REVIEW: The mechanism of action of iloperidone, its efficacy and its safety and tolerability when used to treat patients with schizophrenia.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN: An appreciation of the potential advantages and disadvantages of iloperidone when used for the treatment of schizophrenia.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Iloperidone is a recent addition to the current group of second-generation antipsychotics. While it may share many qualities with other agents in this class, its unique neuroreceptor signature and adverse-effect profile may prove beneficial in clinical practice.