The Effects of Risperidone and Olanzapine on Thinking

The Cognitive Effects of Risperidone and Olanzapine

The goal of this research is to find ways to maximize the benefits of antipsychotic medications for cognition.

Hypothesis: Risperidone and olanzapine will show greater benefits than conventional medications on assessments of social cognition, particularly affect perception and social perception.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with schizophrenia disorder by a DSM IV.
• Competent to sign informed consent
• No history of poor response to Risperdal and Zyprexa
• No organic brain disease

Exclusion Criteria:

• Mental retardation or any chronic medical illness which results in the patient not being appropriate for a switch to Risperdal or Zyprexa.