THE INDIVIDUALIZED HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT OF CONTINUOUS SCHIZOPHRENIA - A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Background: Schizophrenia is a chronic and debilitating mental health disorder affecting approximately 1% of the global population. It is characterized by positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, negative symptoms including emotional withdrawal and anhedonia, and cognitive impairments. Conventional treatments, while effective for symptom management, often present challenges due to side effects and limited patient compliance. This case report evaluates the role of individualized homeopathic management in addressing the symptoms of continuous schizophrenia and reducing family burden.

Objectives: The primary objective of this case report is to evaluate the usefulness of individualized homeopathic treatment in managing continuous schizophrenia.

Case summary: A 45-year-old male patient diagnosed with continuous schizophrenia (ICD-11 code: 6A20.2) was treated at the National Homeopathy Research Institute in Mental Health, Kottayam. Diagnosis was confirmed by a consultant psychiatrist using ICD-11 guidelines. Comprehensive case-taking and repertorization were performed, leading to the selection of the constitutional remedy Sulphur. Symptom severity was monitored monthly using PANSS, while family burden was assessed quarterly using FBIS. Treatment spanned 12 months, with follow-up evaluations to track progress.

Results: The patient showed significant improvements in clinical symptoms and family burden. PANSS scores decreased from 143 at baseline to 39 by the 12th month, with notable reductions in positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and general psychopathology. FBIS scores also improved across all domains, with the total family burden reducing from 39 to 16. Improvements included reduced financial strain, better family interactions, and decreased disruptions in daily routines.

Conclusion: This case report demonstrates the potential of individualized homeopathic management to reduce the severity of schizophrenia symptoms and alleviate the burden on caregivers. The findings support the integration of homeopathy as a complementary treatment modality. Further research with larger patient cohorts is recommended to validate these observations and explore the broader applicability of this approach.