Schizophrenia is a chronic disorder with frequent relapses. It was proved that the occurrence of relapses could be reduced by maintenance antipsychotic treatment. Nowadays there are only few controlled double blind studies dealing with long-term treatment with atypical antipsychotics. In the published studies the atypical antipsychotics were more effective in relapse prevention than the typical antipsychotics (haloperidol) and more effective on negative symptoms in comparison with placebo. There are differences between individual atypical antipsychotics, especially as regards side effects, which could be important in long-term treatment. The tolerance is closely connected with compliance. Therefore it is necessary to consider individual tolerance and patient satisfaction with treatment.

        Key words: schizophrenia, relapse, prevention, long-term treatment, atypical antipsychotics, sideeffects.