Employment Outcomes in a Randomized Trial of Second-Generation Antipsychotics and Perphenazine in the Treatment of Individuals with Schizophrenia

Employment has been increasingly recognized as an important goal for individuals with schizophrenia. Previous research has shown mixed results on the relationship of specific antipsychotic medications to employment outcomes, with some studies finding greater benefits for second-generation antipsychotic medications (SGAs) over first-generation antipsychotic medication (FGAs). A randomized controlled trial (CATIE) examined medication assignment and both employment outcomes and participation in psychosocial rehabilitation (PSR) among 1,121 individuals with a diagnosis of schizophrenia randomized to SGAs (olanzapine, quetiapine, risperidone, ziprasidone) or one FGA (perphenazine). Service use and employment were assessed at quarterly interviews. There were no differences between medication groups on employment outcomes or participation in PSR. Consistent with other CATIE results, there were no differences in employment or participation in PSR among these five medications, including the FGA perphenazine.