Abstract
This was an explorative, randomized double-blind parallel group trial comparing the relapse preventing efficacy of two fixed dosages (10 mg; 20 mg) and a flexible dose of flupenthixol decanoate in patients suffering from schizophrenia. The relapse rate of 24.2 % within one year corresponds to the literature. The three groups did not significantly differ although the efficacy was nominally highest in the flexible dose group. These findings are discussed in terms of the need to balance a higher efficacy with higher dosages versus increasing side effects and non-compliance.