Biological therapies for schizophrenia: drug therapy Flashcards
How long have typical antipsychotics been around for?
Since the 1950s.
How long have atypical antipsychotics been around for?
Since the 1970s.
Give an example of a typical antipsychotic.
Chlorpromazine.
How do typical antipsychotics work?
Typical antipsychotics work by reducing the action of the neurotransmitter dopamine. It blocks dopamine receptors in the synpases of the brain which reduces the action of dopamine which overall reduces symptoms like hallucinations.
Typical anti-pscythotics only treat what type of symptoms?
Positive
What are the side effects of typical-antipsychotics?
Sedative effects such as dry mouth, constipation, low energy.
Which type of symptoms do atypical antipsychotics treat?
Both positive and negative.
Why were atypical antipsychotics first invented?
To improve the effectiveness of drugs in supressing physchosis symptoms and to minimise side effects.
Name an atypical antipsychotic.
Clozapine, Risperidone
How do atypical antipsychotics work?
By blocking dopamine receptors but they also work on other neurotransmitters such as serotonin.
Why do patients taking Clozapine have to have regular blood tests?
When Clozapine was first invented, some patients died from a blood condition so now daily dosage is lower.
Why was Risperidone created?
To be as effective as Clozapine but without the side effects.
Strength of biological therapies for schizophrenia.
There is research evidence to support the use of both typical and atypical antipsychotics. Thornley et al. reviewed studies comparing the effects of Chlorpromazine to control conditions. Data from 13 trials with a total of 1121 participants showed that Chlorpromazine was associated with better overall functioning and the reduction of symptoms. The relapse rate was also lower.There is also support for atypical antipsychotics.Meltzer concluded that Clozapine is more effective than typical antipsychotics and other atyptical antipsychotics. It is effective in 30-50% of treatment cases where typical antipsychotics have failed.
Limitation of biological therapies for schizophrenia.
A problem with antipsychotic drugs are the liklihood of side effects which range from mild to serious and even fatal. Typical antipsychotics are associated with side effects such as agitation, slepiness, stiff jaw, weight gain and long term use can result in tardive dyskinesia.The most serious side effect of typical antipsychptics is neuroleptic malignant syddrome (NMS). NMS can be fatal.Atypical antipsychotics were made to reduce the frequency and intensity of side effects however side effects still exist and patients taking clozapine have to regularly have their bloods taken.
What is the most common treatment for schizophrenia?
Antipsychotic drugs
