BACKGROUND: The antipsychotic drug amisulpride has not yet been officially approved for use in the Netherlands, although it is already available in other European countries , including Belgium, the UK and Germany. However, a fast-track procedure has recently been initiated so that amisulpride will soon become available in the Netherlands as well. AIM: To summarise the efficacy and side effects of amisulpride. METHOD: We discuss the evidence presented in the scientific literature. RESULTS: The scientific literature assures us that amisulpride is an effective antipsychotic drug with an acceptable range of side-effects. This means that there are two main advantages that ensue from the use of amisulpride: a patient's psychosis is more likely to go into remission and patients are less likely to stop taking the drug. CONCLUSION: The availability of amisulpride in the Netherlands will constitute a valuable addition to the pharmacotherapeutic options for treating psychotic disorders in our county.