This paper presents a major overview for the non medical prescriber when considering prescribing an antipsychotic to have the optimum outcome. Key messages Antipsychotics continue to be the cornerstone of therapy for the treatment of schizophrenia. Outcomes depend on adherence with therapy. Patient choice in therapy is as important as clinician choice. There is no one drug fits all. Second generation/atypicals are as effective as first generation/typical antipsychotics but not superior and can cause side effects with long term problems The involvement of the patient in the treatment plan is necessary including initial and ongoing physical health monitoring The drug costs are less than 5% of the burden of costs in the care of schizophrenia