Antipsychotic Drugs

Question 1

First generation antipsychotics (conventional)

Answer 1

• block receptors for dopamine in the CNS
• cause serious movement disorders (extrapyramidal symptoms [EPS])
• includes Chloropromazine (thorazine) and Haloperidol (Haldol)

Question 2

Second generation antipsychotics (atypical)

Answer 2

• produce only moderate blockade of dopamine receptors; stronger blockade for serotonin
• fewer eps
• Aripiprazole (abilify), Quentiapine (seroquel), Olanzapine (Zyprexa)

Question 3

Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)

Answer 3

• treats schizophrenia
• adverse effects include sedation, hypotension, anticholinergic effects, neuroendocrine effects, and EPS
• drug interactions: intensify response to CNS depressants & anticholinergic drugs
• Low potency
• blocks dopamine 2 receptors

Question 4

Haloperidol (Haldol)

Answer 4

• treats schizophrenia and psychosis
• adverse effects include EPS, sedation, hypotension, anticholinergic effects, prolongs QT interval
• High potency
• blocks dopamine 2 receptors