Atypical antipsychotics
Atypical Antipsychotics
Atypical antipsychotics (pronunciation: /æˈtɪpɪkəl æntɪsaɪˈkɒtɪks/), also known as second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs), are a group of antipsychotic drugs used primarily to treat psychiatric conditions.
Etymology
The term "atypical" refers to the different pharmacological profile of these drugs compared to the first-generation or "typical" antipsychotics. The "second-generation" descriptor indicates that these drugs are part of the second wave of antipsychotic medications developed.
Usage
Atypical antipsychotics are primarily used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders. They are also used off-label for a variety of other conditions, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Mechanism of Action
Atypical antipsychotics work by blocking receptors in the brain's dopamine pathways. However, they also affect serotonin, another neurotransmitter. This dual action is thought to help reduce the negative symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
Examples
Examples of atypical antipsychotics include clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, and aripiprazole.
Side Effects
Common side effects of atypical antipsychotics can include weight gain, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Some atypical antipsychotics can also cause movement disorders, known as extrapyramidal symptoms.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Atypical antipsychotics
- Wikipedia's article - Atypical antipsychotics
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