Schizophrenia is a lifelong thought disorder characterized by disturbances in perception, thought processes, and affect. It is treated primarily with antipsychotic medications which work by blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the brain. First-generation "typical" antipsychotics like chlorpromazine are effective but cause severe extrapyramidal side effects. Newer "atypical" antipsychotics have fewer motor side effects but may still cause issues like weight gain and metabolic changes. Proper treatment requires long-term medication compliance to control symptoms and prevent relapse.