7. Biological Therapies For Schizophrenia: Drug Therapy AO1 Flashcards
How long have typical antipsychotic drugs been around
Since 1950’s
Give an example of a typical antipsychotic drug
Chlorpromazine
How do typical antipsychotic drugs work
By acting as antagonists in the dopamine system and aim to reduce the action of dopamine - they are strongly associated with the dopamine hypothesis
How do dopamine antagonists work
By blocking dopamine receptors in the synapses in the brain, reducing the action of dopamine
What initially happens after taking chlorpromazine
Initially dopamine levels build up but then production is reduced
What does chlorpromazine do
This normalises neurotransmission in key areas of the brain which in turn reduces symptoms like hallucinations
What else does chlorpromazine do
Has an effect on histamine receptors which appears to have a sedation effect
Who else can chlorpromazine be used to help
It can also be used to, anxious patients when they are first admitted into hospital
How long have atypical antipsychotic drugs been around
Since the 1970’s
Give an example of an atypical antipsychotic drug
Clozapine
How to atypical antipsychotic drugs work
The aim of these drugs is to improve effectiveness of drugs and suppressing psychoses such as schizophrenia and also minimise the side-effects
What to atypical antipsychotics target
A range of neurotransmitters including dopamine and serotonin
How does clozapine work
It binds to dopamine receptors as chlorpromazine does but also acts on serotonin and glutamate receptors
Which drug was more effective
Atypical
What does clozapine reduce
Depression and anxiety and patience as well as improving cognitive functioning - it also improves mood, which is important as up to 50% of people suffering from schizophrenia attempted suicide
