Schizophrenia- Treatments and Interactionist approach Flashcards
How do antipsychotic drugs generally work ?
By blocking D2 receptors in the brain which prevents dopamine from attaching to them and therefore reducing dopamine activity
Give an example of a typical antipsychotic ?
Chlorpromazine
When were typical antipsychotics developed ?
In the 1950s
What symptoms do typical antipsychotics tend to treat ?
Positive symptoms
What is another use of chlorpromazine ?
It is a sedative so can have calming effects in people with high anxiety
What are some side effects of typical antipsychotics ?
- Tardive dyskinesia
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)
What is tardive dyskinesia ?
A loss of control of muscles in the body
What is neuroleptic malignant syndrome ?
Causes serious delirium and can even induce comas, is fatal
Give an example of an atypical antipsychotic ?
Clozapine
When were atypical antipsychotics developed ?
In the 1970s
What was the idea behind developing atypical antipsychotics ?
To be effective but with fewer side effects
What symptoms do atypical antipsychotics tend to treat ?
Positive and some negative symptoms
What does clozapine bind to ?
Dopamine receptors but also acts on glutamate and serotonin receptors
What is another use of atypical antipsychotics ?
They improve mood and cognitive functioning and can be used to treat patients who are at a high risk of suicide
What is a side effect of atypical antipsychotics ?
Agranulocytosis