Biological Therapies For Schizophrenia - Drug Therapy

Question 1

Typical Antipsychotics

Answer 1

Chlorpromazine: Blocks dopamine receptors, reduces positive symptoms.

Side effects: Tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements), Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (muscle rigidity, fever)

Question 2

Atypical Antipsychotics

Answer 2

Clozapine: Targets dopamine and serotonin receptors, reduces both positive and negative symptoms.

Side effects: Agranulocytosis (decreased white blood cells), weight gain, sedation

Question 3

strengths

Answer 3

✅ Effective symptom control
→ Example: Thornley et al. (2003) found chlorpromazine significantly better than placebo for symptom reduction.

✅ Practical and accessible
→ Example: Easy to administer, with immediate effects on psychotic symptoms

Question 4

limitations

Answer 4

❌ Side effects
→ Example: Can cause tremors, weight gain, drowsiness, and serious effects like tardive dyskinesia.(atypical)

❌ Treats symptoms, not causes
→ Example: Doesn’t address underlying psychological or environmental factor