Rates and predictors of remission and recovery during 3 years in 392 never-treated patients with schizophrenia

Objective: Few studies have prospectively examined remission and recovery as well as their predictors in schizophrenia simultaneously. Aims of the study were to identify remission and recovery rates as well as their predictors in schizophrenia. Method: 392 never-treated patients with schizophrenia were assessed over 3 years. Combined remission and recovery required concurrent achievement of symptomatic and functional remission as well as adequate quality of life for at least 6 and 24 months respectively. Predictors were analysed using stepwise logistic regression models. Results: At 3 years, remission rates for symptoms, functioning and subjective wellbeing were 60.3%, 45.4% and 57.0%; recovery rates were 51.7%, 35.0% and 44.3%. Of those, 28.1% were in combined remission and 17.1% in combined recovery. Predictors mainly included the baseline functional status and early remission within the first 3 months. Conclusion: The proportion of patients who met combined remission or recovery criteria is low. Early treatment adaptations in case of early non-remission are mandatory.