*Biological Therapy For Schizophrenia Flashcards
What are antipsychotic drugs used for?
They are used to treat psychosis, which is a loss of contact with reality, including symptoms like hallucinations and delusions.
When were typical antipsychotics first used?
Since the 1950s.
What is the maximum dosage for Chlorpromazine tablets?
1000mg.
What is the average dosage range for Chlorpromazine?
400-800mg.
What hypothesis are typical antipsychotics associated with?
The dopamine hypothesis.
How do typical antipsychotics affect dopamine?
They act as dopamine antagonists, blocking dopamine receptors and reducing the action of dopamine.
What is the sedation effect of Chlorpromazine attributed to?
Its effect on histamine receptors.
When is Chlorpromazine often administered to patients?
When they are first admitted to the hospital due to anxiety.
What are atypical antipsychotics developed to achieve?
To maintain or improve effectiveness of suppressing psychotic symptoms and to minimize side effects.
What is Clozapine’s daily dosage range?
300-450mg.
What additional receptors does Clozapine act on besides dopamine?
Serotonin and glutamate receptors.
What is a significant risk factor for schizophrenia sufferers regarding suicide?
30-50% attempt suicide at some point.
What is Risperidone developed to do?
To be as effective as Chlorpromazine without the side effects.
What is the initial dosage strategy for Risperidone?
Start with a small dose and build up to a daily dose of 4-8mg.
What are the strengths of antipsychotics according to Thornley et al?
They show better overall functioning and reduced symptoms compared to control conditions.
What does Meltzer’s research suggest about Clozapine?
It is more effective than typical antipsychotics and effective in 30-50% of previously failed treatments.
What limitations of antipsychotics does Healy suggest?
Studies often focus on short-term effects and can exaggerate claims.
What are some common side effects of antipsychotics?
- Dizziness
- Agitation
- Sleepiness
- Stiff jaw
- Weight gain
- Itchy skin
What is tardive dyskinesia?
A side effect characterized by involuntary facial movements such as grimacing, lip smacking, and blinking.
What is neuroleptic malignant syndrome?
A rare side effect causing high temperature, delirium, and comas, occurring in 0.1-2% of cases.
True or False: The dopamine hypothesis completely explains schizophrenia.
False.
Fill in the blank: Antipsychotics have a calming effect, making it easy to demonstrate that they have a _______.
positive effect.
