Biological Treatments for Schizophrenia Flashcards
(12 cards)
What are Typical Antipsychotics?
Medications like Chlorpromazine that reduce dopamine activity by blocking D2 receptors in the brain.
What is the effect of Typical Antipsychotics?
They prevent dopamine from binding and triggering its usual effects, targeting positive symptoms of schizophrenia.
What are Atypical Antipsychotics?
Medications like Clozapine that reduce dopamine activity by blocking D2 receptors and also block serotonin receptors.
What is the effect of Atypical Antipsychotics?
They treat both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia.
What is the main difference between Typical and Atypical Antipsychotics?
Typical antipsychotics only reduce dopamine activity, while atypical antipsychotics reduce both dopamine and serotonin activity.
What are the side effects of Typical Antipsychotics?
More likely to cause movement disorders, agitation, dizziness, and weight gain.
What are the side effects of Atypical Antipsychotics?
Similar to typical antipsychotics but usually less severe.
What is a strength of antipsychotic treatments?
They are supported by clinical research, with around 70% of patients experiencing symptom reduction.
What is a limitation of antipsychotic treatments?
Around 30% of patients do not experience improvements, suggesting symptoms might not always be due to neurotransmitter imbalance.
What is another limitation of antipsychotic treatments?
They do not treat the root cause of schizophrenia, leading to high relapse rates when medication is stopped.
What are common side effects of antipsychotic treatments?
Agitation, dizziness, weight gain, and movement disorders, especially with typical drugs.
What is a strength regarding the accessibility of antipsychotic treatments?
Antipsychotics are inexpensive and quick to prescribe, making treatment more accessible.
