Understanding Antipsychotics
The class of medications known as antipsychotics (also called neuroleptics and major Tranquilizers ) is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other mental disorders. The brain's receptors for dopamine are blocked by antipsychotics. This neurotransmitter is responsible for controlling mood, thoughts, and behavior. They can also be used to decrease aggression, Anxiety , delusions and hallucinations as well as improve overall functioning.
Which Health Conditions Can Be Treated with Antipsychotics
Psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder are treated with antipsychotics. You may also use them to treat Depression , anxiety and other mental disorders. Antipsychotics can be prescribed to manage the symptoms of Alzheimer's or dementia.
Antipsychotics: Examples
Antipsychotics are most commonly used in the following:
- Clozapine (Clozaril)
- Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
- Quetiapine , also known as Seroquel
- Risperidone (Risperdal)
- Aripiprazole ( Abilify )
Antipsychotics: Experts' Views
Experts believe that antipsychotics may be effective at reducing the symptoms of psychotic disorders. In 2020, a systematic review of randomised controlled trials showed that antipsychotics were more effective than placebo for treating schizophrenia symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. Antipsychotics might also be beneficial in decreasing negative symptoms such as social withdrawal and lack of motivation. The authors cautioned that more research is required to establish if antipsychotics are beneficial over the long term.
Antipsychotics can have side effects
Side effects of antipsychotics include dizziness, weight gain and dry mouth. Side effects that can be more serious include increased stroke risk and diabetes as well as tardive dyskinesia, which is an involuntary movement called tardive dyskinesia. Before you start treatment, it is important that your doctor be aware of any side effects.
Alternatives to Antipsychotics
Alternative treatments can sometimes be used in place of or alongside antipsychotics. Psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, as well as complementary and alternate therapies like yoga, meditation and acupuncture, may be used. People with mental disorders may benefit from natural remedies such as vitamin B6, omega-3 fatty acid, and magnesium. Before you take any herbal supplements, consult your doctor.
Conclusion
An antipsychotic medication is a type of medication that can be used to treat schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Antipsychotics work by blocking the brain's dopamine receptors, which reduces symptoms like hallucinations or delusions. They can cause weight gain or involuntary movement, among other side effects. Psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and natural remedies may also be alternatives to or added to antipsychotics.
This article provides an overview of antipsychotics, their uses and information about possible side effects. Before you start treatment, it is important that you talk with your doctor.