Can patients with early-stage schizophrenia take Shugan Liqi Pills?

Whether patients with early-stage schizophrenia can take Shugan Liqi Pills depends on their specific condition. If the patient also has obvious symptoms of liver qi stagnation, they may take the medication under a doctor's guidance. However, if only core symptoms of schizophrenia are present without related Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndromes, the medication is unnecessary. Detailed analysis is as follows:

When patients exhibit symptoms of liver qi stagnation—such as depressed mood, distending pain in the chest and hypochondrium, or belching—in addition to symptoms of schizophrenia, Shugan Liqi Pills may be used as an adjunctive调理 treatment. These physical and emotional symptoms may exacerbate mental discomfort; the medication can help regulate emotions and create favorable conditions for psychiatric treatment, but must be strictly taken as prescribed by a physician.

If patients only show core symptoms of schizophrenia such as hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking, without evident somatic or emotional signs of qi stagnation, the use of Shugan Liqi Pills is not required. The medication does not target the underlying pathophysiology of schizophrenia, and inappropriate use may increase physical burden and interfere with standard treatment protocols.

Daily care should focus on creating a calm living environment and avoiding intense emotional stimuli. Patients should be encouraged to maintain regular sleep-wake cycles and participate in gentle activities to divert attention. Family members should provide companionship and understanding, helping the patient build confidence in treatment.