Biological therapies - drug therapy A01 Flashcards
(16 cards)
What type of medication does this approach use?
Antipsychotics
How do antipsychotics work?
By reducing dopaminergic transmission (reducing the actions of the neurotransmitter dopamine in areas of the brain associated with the symptoms of schizophrenia)
What are the two types of antipsychotics?
- Typical (traditional)
- Atypical (Newer Drugs)
When were Typical antipsychotics introduced?
1950’s
What is an example of a typical antipsychotic?
Chlorpromazine
What is the typical dosage of Chlorpromazine?
400-800mg (up to 1000mg)
What does Chlorpromazine bind to?
Dopamine
When were Atypical antipsychotics introduced?
1970’s (aim to have fewer side effects)
What is an example of an atypical antipsychotic?
Clozapine, Risperidone
What is the typical dosage of clozapine?
up to 450mg per day
What does Clozapine bind to?
Dopamine, Serotonin, Glutamate
What is the typical dosage of risperidone?
4-8mg (up to 12mg)
What does risperidone bind to?
Dopamine, Serotonin
What are the side effects of Chlorpromazine?
Dizziness, stiff jaw, weight gain, itchy skin
Long term use can cause tar dive dyskinesia (involuntary facial movements e.g grimacing and lip smacking)
Most serious side effect: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)
This results in a high temperature, delirium and coma and can be fatal. Occurs in about 1% of patients taking this drug.
What are the side effects of Clozapine?
Dizziness, headache, nausea, blurred visions etc
Most serious side effect: Agranulocytosis - lowered white blood less and increased risk of infection
What are the side effects of Risperidone?
Fewer side effects bit can still cause agitation, anxiety, blurred visions, muscle spasm etc
