Biological treatments

Question 1

What are antipsychotics?

Answer 1

Drugs used to reduce the intensity of symptoms

Question 2

What are typical antipsychotics?

Answer 2

• First generation of drugs for SZ and other disorders, used since 1950s
• EG: chlorpromazine
• Tablets, syrup, injection
• Dopamine antagonists, blocks dopamine receptors in synapses of the brain, reducing its action
• Reduces symptoms like hallucination

Question 3

What are atypical antipsychotics?

Answer 3

• Developed after typical antipsychotics, targets a range of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.
• EG: clozapine, risperidone
• Clozapine > binds to dopamine receptors but acts on serotonin and glutamate receptors to improve mood and reduce depression and anxiety in patients. Requires blood tests. Can be tablets, not injection tho.
• Risperidone > Binds to dopamine and serotonin receptors. Binds more strongly to dopamine receptors than clozapine, effective in smaller doses. Can be tablets, syrup or injection.