Biological Therapies : Drugs

Antipsychotics

a class of psychotropic medications used for the treatment of schizophrenia and other disorders that involve psychosis

Clozapine

TYPE : atypical antipyschotic
DECADE OF 1ST USE: 1970s
FREQUENCY : daily
FORMAT : tablets
DOSAGE : 300-450 mg
MODE OF ACTION : binds to dopamine receptors and acts on serotonin and glutamate receptors, reduces depression and anxiety, usually prescribed when suicidal.

Risperidone

TYPE : atypical antipyschotic
DECADE OF 1ST USE: 1990s
FREQUENCY : daily
FORMAT : tablets, syrup,injection
DOSAGE : 4-8 mg
MODE OF ACTION : binds to dopamine (strongly) and serotonin receptors, fewer side effects

Chlopromazine

TYPE : typical antipyschotic (TA)
DECADE OF 1ST USE: 1950s
FREQUENCY : daily
FORMAT : tablet, syringe, injection
DOSAGE : 300-450 mg
MODE OF ACTION : acts as dopamine antagonist, blocks the re uptake of dopamine.

biological therapies A03

+ large body of evidence, thornley et al found Chlorpromazine was associated with reduced symptom severity, Meltzer conceded that Clozapine is more effective than other drugs

- serious side effects, TA is linked with dizziness, agitation, sleepiness, stiff jaw; long-term can result in dyskinesia

- problem with evidence for effectiveness, healy suggested that trials have exaggerated the evidence for positive effects