Biological therapy for Schizophrenia Flashcards
(27 cards)
What are antipsychotics?
Drugs used to reduce the intensity of symptoms in psychotic disorders.
What are typical antipsychotics?
The first generation of drugs for SZ and work as dopamine antagonists.
-> include Chlorpromazine.
When were typical antipsychotics first used?
1950’s.
What is a typical antipsychotic?
Chlorpromazine.
How can chlorpromazine be taken?
Tablets, syrups of by injection.
What happens if chlorpromazine is taken orally?
It’s administered daily up to a maximum of 1000mg.
What are antagonists?
Chemicals that reduce the action of a neurotransmitter.
How do dopamine antagonists work?
Blocking dopamine receptors in the synapses of the brain, reducing the action of dopamine.
What type of symptoms to typical antipsychotics reduce?
Reduce positive symptoms but not negative symptoms.
What 2 things does chlorpromazine work as?
1) An antipsychotic.
2) A sedative.
What are the size effects of chlorpromazine?
-Dizziness, agitation, sleepiness.
-Tardive dyskinesia.
What is the most serious side effect of antipsychotics?
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).
What does NMS result in?
High temps, delirium, coma & death.
What are atypical antipsychotics?
Drugs for SZ which were developed after typical antipsychotics and typically target a range of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.
When were atypical antipsychotics first used?
1960’s and 1980’s.
What was the aim of atypical antipsychotics?
Made to improve the effectiveness of drugs in suppressing the symptoms of psychosis and minimises the side effects.
What is clozapine and when is it taken?
Taken if typica; drugs fail.
-> Works on dopamine, serotonin and glutamate receptors.
What does clozapine improve?
Improves mood so reduces suicide risk of individuals with SZ.
What does risperidone do?
Binds to dopamine and serotonin sites.
How does risperidone differ to clozapine?
Risperidone has less side effects than clozapine.
How do you administer clozapine?
Tablets and syrups.
What is the daily dosage of clozapine?
300-450mg.
How do you administer risperidone?
Tablets, syrups and injections.
How long does an injection of risperidone last?
2 weeks.
