The benefits of using conventional antipsychotic agents to treat schizophrenia are countered by the agents' lack of efficacy in treating negative symptoms and their association with the development of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). The introduction of the atypical antipsychotic clozapine, and later risperidone, marked a significant advance in the therapeutic options for schizophrenia. Now, another generation of atypical antipsychotic drugs looks set to reach the market. This will provide clinicians with a much greater range of options for treating schizophrenia by the end of the decade. Data on the newer antipsychotic drugs, and future prospects in schizophrenia treatment, were discussed at the 20th Collegium Internationale Neuro-Psychopharmacologicum (CINP) meeting [Melbourne, Australia; July 1996].