Antipsychotics

Question 1

1) How do first-generation antipsychotic drugs/typical antipsychotics work?
2) Name 2 of these
3) Name 3 side effects

Answer 1

1) Blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the brain
2) Chlorpromazine, haloperidol, pimozide, levomepromazine, fluphenazine
3) Extrapyramidal symptoms - parkinsonian symptoms, dystonia, akathisia, tardive dyskinesia. Hyperprolactinaemia, sexual dysfunction, cardiovascular symptoms i.e. tachycardia, arrhythmias, and hypotension. Hyperglycemia + diabetes, weight gain.

Question 2

1) How do atypical/second generation antipsychotics differ from typical antipsychotics?
2) What is the advantage of atypical antidepressants over typical antidepressants?
3) Name 3 atypical antidepressants

Answer 2

1) Act on multiple receptors
2) Lower risk for acute extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia
3) Aripiprazole, clozapine, olanzapine, quetiapine, risperidone, mirtazapine

Question 3

What is the main side effect associated with clozapine?

Answer 3

Agranulocytosis