Drug Therapies AO1 Flashcards
What do antipsychotics reduce?
Positive symptoms
What are the 2 types of antipsychotics?
Atypical
Typical
Give an example of a typical antipsychotic?
Chlorpromazine
What does Chlorpromazine do?
Initially causes a build-up of dopamine to reduce its production, thus normalising neurotransmission in key areas and reducing symptoms
What is an alternative use for Chlorpromazine?
Also used as a Sedative for patients that are first admitted into the hospital
What do typical antipsychotics do?
They reduce the action of the neurotransmitter by blocking dopamine receptors in the synapse
What do typical antipsychotics target?
Dopamine levels - they are a Dopamine Antagonist
***So there are strong associations with the Dopamine Hypothesis
What do Atypical Antipsychotics target?
Dopamine and Serotonin Levels
Why were Atypical Antipsychotics developed?
To maintain/improve the effectiveness of drugs in suppressing symptoms while also reducing their side effects
What are the 2 types of atypical antipsychotics?
Risperidone
Clozapine
What is a major side effect of Clozapine?
Agranulocytosis aka a severe blood condition
How does Clozapine work?
It binds to dopamine receptors but also acts of serotonin and glutamate receptors
When is Clozapine prescribed?
When the patient is at high risk of suicide b/c Clozapine is thought to improve mood and decrease depression and anxiety
How does Risperidone work?
Binds to dopamine and serotonin receptors, but binds more strongly to dopamine receptors than Clozapine
When is Risperidone most effective?
When it is taken in small doses for approx 2 weeks
