634. SECONDARY EFFECTS OF PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGICAL DRUGS AS PRIMARY EFFECTS IN FORENSIC PSYCHIATRY. BASED ON THE SWISS MODEL

Abstract Background Antipsychotics were introduced in the 1950s and have significantly evolved since then. Modern formulations have fewer side effects and are better tolerated. They are primarily used to alleviate psychotic symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and thought disorders. In addition, they are used in forensic psychiatry to reduce violence and aggression and to control impulsive outbursts. People with severe mental disorders often have a distorted perception of reality, which increases the risk of harm to others. Without treatment, individuals may resist help in cases of extreme anxiety and commit serious crimes—ranging from threats and bodily harm to homicide. Aims & Objectives The Swiss legal system provides special measures in such cases when a connection between the mental disorder and the crime exists(1). The goal is not only to sanction the individuals but also to treat them. Treatment takes place in specialized forensic clinics, treatment centers, or forensic departments of prisons An essential part of the treatment is not only addressing the mental disorder itself but also the offense-relevant and crime-preventive care. This involves regularly creating legal prognoses using individual clinical assessments as well as standardized tools (2). Method A case example of a schizophrenic offender should further illustrate how side effects affect medication compliance and the consequences this may have in forensic practice. Results Medication compliance—regular intake of prescribed medication—presents a significant challenge. Side effects can cause patients to discontinue their medication independently. This increases the risk of decompensation, which, especially in stressful situations or during sensory overload, can lead to new criminal acts. Discussion & Conclusions To reduce the risk of recidivism in mentally ill offenders, the key risk factors must be identified. The primary risk factor is often the mental illness itself. When effectively treated, the risk of reoffending decreases significantly.