Antipsychotic drug

Antipsychotic drugs are a class of medication primarily used to manage psychosis (including delusions, hallucinations, paranoia or disordered thought), principally in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They are increasingly being used in the management of non-psychotic disorders. Antipsychotics are usually effective in relieving symptoms of psychosis in the short term.

History

The first generation of antipsychotics were introduced in the 1950s. The discovery of the first antipsychotic, chlorpromazine, was a significant breakthrough in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The second generation of antipsychotics, also known as atypical antipsychotics, were developed in the 1980s.

Mechanism of action

Antipsychotics are believed to work by blocking receptors in the brain's dopamine pathways. However, this is not a complete explanation as other drugs that block dopamine receptors are not antipsychotic. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood.

Types of antipsychotics

There are two main types of antipsychotics: typical and atypical. Typical antipsychotics are the older, first-generation drugs, while atypical antipsychotics are the newer, second-generation drugs.

Typical antipsychotics

Typical antipsychotics are also known as first-generation antipsychotics. Examples include haloperidol, chlorpromazine, and fluphenazine.

Atypical antipsychotics

Atypical antipsychotics, also known as second-generation antipsychotics, have different side effect profiles from the typical antipsychotics. Examples include clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine.

Side effects

Antipsychotics can have severe side effects, including extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Atypical antipsychotics are associated with weight gain, diabetes, and an increased risk of metabolic syndrome.

See also

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology
• Neurology