The promise of atypical antipsychotics: fewer side effects mean enhanced compliance and improved functioning.

Five new antipsychotic drugs introduced in the United States in the last decade offer physicians the ability to treat patients with schizophrenia and bipolar mania without the adverse effects of the first-generation antipsychotics. In this article, the authors discuss the advantages and side effects of these agents and present a guide to help physicians choose the optimal drug in the most favorable formulation for each patient.