Biological treatment

What are antipsychotic drugs

• used go reduce intensity of symptoms, specifically positive symptoms

• reduce action of dopamine in brain associated with schizo symptoms

Typical antipsychotics

• first generation of antipsychotics e.g. chlorpromazine

• work by blocking dopamine receptors in post synaptic neurone to reduce action of dopamine

• this reduces positive symptoms like hallucinations

What can typical antipsychotics also be used as

• an effective sedative, calms patient

Atypical antipsychotics

• second generation of antipsychotics e.g. clozapine

• designed to maintain effectiveness of typical AP but reduce side effects

• Only temporary block dopamine receptors before dissociating, allowing normal dopamine transmission- cause less side effects

• also act on serotonin & glutamate receptors, affecting positive & negative symptoms