What is the primary reason for starting with monotherapy in antipsychotic treatment?

The primary reason for initiating treatment with monotherapy in antipsychotic management is primarily to reduce potential side effects. When starting a patient on a single medication, healthcare providers can more easily monitor how the patient responds to that specific drug. Each antipsychotic has a distinct side effect profile; by using monotherapy, clinicians can better identify which side effects may arise from the medication without the confounding influence of another agent. Additionally, this approach allows for a clearer assessment of therapeutic efficacy and enhances the patient's safety.

While concerns about QT prolongation are valid, especially in certain antipsychotics, the broader goal of monotherapy is to manage overall tolerability and minimize adverse effects comprehensively. Other aspects like expediting treatment or monitoring compliance are important, but they are secondary to the fundamental aim of ensuring patient safety and managing the risk of side effects effectively.