Effects of haloperidol and atypical neuroleptics on psychomotor performance and driving ability in schizophrenic patients - Results from an experimental study

The influence of antipsychotic treatment on the neuropsychological
and psychomotor performance of schizophrenic patients is still a
subject of investigation. The present study was designed to
evaluate the effects of atypical neuroleptics in comparison with a
conventional dopamine antagonist neuroleptic (haloperidol) on
several dimensions of psychomotor performance (visual perception,
attention, reaction time, and sensorimotor performance) considered
to be of relevance in evaluating driving fitness. Psychomotor
performance was assessed by means of the ART 90, a computerized Act
and React Test which is generally used in diagnosis of psychomotor
performance. The 49 participating patients were examined at
discharge following psychopathological stabilisation; 20 received
haloperidol, 29 received an atypical neuroleptic. Our findings
demonstrate a remarkably reduced psychomotor performance in the
haloperidol-treated group of schizophrenic patients compared with
patients treated with atypical neuroleptics. Only 1 (5%) subject
passed all subtests without major failures and could be regarded as
competent to drive. Among patients with atypical neuroleptics, 7
patients (24%) passed all test parameters without major failures.
Copyright (C) 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel.