Antipsychotic drug
Antipsychotic Drug
Antipsychotic drugs (pronunciation: an-tee-sy-kot-ik drugs), also known as neuroleptics or major tranquilizers, are a class of medication primarily used to manage psychosis (including delusions, hallucinations, paranoia or disordered thought), principally in Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder.
Etymology
The term "antipsychotic" is derived from the Greek words "anti-", meaning against, and "psychotic", meaning madness. The term "neuroleptic" is derived from the Greek words "neuron", meaning nerve, and "lepsis", meaning seizure.
Types of Antipsychotic Drugs
Antipsychotic drugs are broadly classified into two groups:
1. First-Generation Antipsychotics (FGAs): Also known as typical antipsychotics, these were the first antipsychotic drugs to be developed. Examples include Chlorpromazine and Haloperidol.
2. Second-Generation Antipsychotics (SGAs): Also known as atypical antipsychotics, these are newer and are generally preferred due to fewer side effects. Examples include Risperidone, Olanzapine, and Quetiapine.
Mechanism of Action
Antipsychotic drugs work by changing the effects of chemicals in the brain, particularly Dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is believed to be involved in the development of psychosis.
Side Effects
Common side effects of antipsychotic drugs include drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, weight gain, and dry mouth. Serious side effects can include Tardive Dyskinesia, a movement disorder, and Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic drugs.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antipsychotic drug
- Wikipedia's article - Antipsychotic drug
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