Treatments of schizophrenia - Drug therapy Flashcards
What is the rationale for drug therapy?
If there is something wrong with the workings of the brain, as suggested by the biological approach then we need drugs to alter these.
What does blocking receptors mean?
Prevents neurotransmitters from binding to the receptors so the chemical impulse isn’t sent
What does inhibiting reuptake mean?
Blocking reuptake from happening, so flooding the synapse with the neurotransmitters which can lead to an excess of NTs
What is an agonist?
Increases the amount of a NT in that part of the brain
What is an antagonist?
Decreases the amount of a NT that is sent through the synapse
Krishna Patel (2014)
Medication must be used quickly in order to be more effective as the earlier onset makes it more effective.
What should you do in the first 7 days of a psychotic episode?
The object of this time frame is to decreases hostility and attempt to return to normal functioning. Mostly positive symptoms are targeted in this time. Individual is carefully monitored for changes in symptoms and side effects.
What is a maintenance dose?
Once the symptoms begin to subside, a maintenance dosage is prescribed. This encourages socialisation, self-care etc to combat relapse. Relapse occurs in 60-80% of those who do not take a maintenance dosage but only in 18-32% of those who do.
How long should the maintenance dose be maintained?
12 months after remission
What is a FGA?
A typical anti-psychotic which were developed during the 1950s and target dopamine, developed from early theories.
What is an SGA?
Atypical anti-psychotics which were developed during 1990’s. They target dopamine, serotonin and glutamate.
Anti-psychotics (first generation)
First anti-psychotics. They work by blocking receptors in the synapse that absorb dopamine. They bind to D2 receptors but don’t stimulate them and so reduce the amount of activity.
Chlorpromazine
Blocks the receptors that dopamine acts on and this prevents the overactivity of dopamine. Helps to control psychotic illnesses and works on symptoms such as disturbed thoughts. Produces a calming effect and controls aggression, delusions and hallucinations.
