SCHIZOPHRENIA: Drug Therapy Flashcards
How is SZ treated using drug therapy?
Use of antipsychotic drugs to reduce symptoms. Work by reducing dopaminergic transmission. There are two types; typical and atypical
How do Typical Antipsychotic Drugs work?
Known as dopamine antagonists. Bind to dopamine receptors but don’t stimulate them, reducing the action of dopamine. Initially dopamine builds up, but then production is reduced. This normalises neurotransmission in key areas of their brain, by reducing stimulation of the dopamine system reducing positive symptoms like hallucinations
What is an example of Typical antipsychotics?
Chlorpromazine
How do atypical antipsychotic drugs work?
Block dopamine just like typical antipsychotics. However, they only temporarily occupy the receptors and then rapidly dissociate to allow normal dopamine transmission. This is thought to be responsible for fewer side effects. They also act on neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and address negative symptoms.
What are examples of atypical antipsychotics?
Clozapine and Risperidone
What did Kapur et al say about the working of typical antipsychotics?
In order for them to work, 60-75% of the mesolimbic pathway D2 receptors must be blocked. They don’t only work in this pathway which can result in bad side effects.
Why is it beneficial that atypical antipsychotics deal with neurotransmitters as well as dopamine receptors?
They act on serotonin so they can not only reduce SZ symptoms but can act on comorbid depression and anxiety, which is good as 30-50% of SZ patients attempt suicide at one point in their life.
