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Antipsychotic drugs

What are they?
These are drugs that are used to treat schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. This type of medication is prescribed to control symptoms of psychiatric disorders such as hallucinations and disturbing thoughts.

These drugs can also be used to treat some types of depression (mainly bipolar affective disorder). They may also be used to treat uncontrollable hiccups and vomiting, only if other types of medication have failed. In some cases they are used for anxiety treatment and post drug abuse problems.

What are the different types?

The following are common types of antipsychotic medication:
  • Pimozide
  • Olanzapine
  • Haloperidol
  • Fluphenazine
  • Trifluoperazine
  • Chlorpromazine
  • Clozapine
  • Droperidol
  • Risperidone
  • Thioridazine

How do they affect the body?

Dopamine is a natural chemical in the brain. These drugs block this chemical from transmitting messages. In people who suffer with psychotic tendencies, dopamine levels are normally a lot higher than those of people who don’t suffer with psychotic disorders.

Serotonin is also another natural chemical in the body which controls are mood. Some of the above medication will help control the levels of serotonin in the body.

What kind will my GP prescribe me?

Your prescription will be based on your symptoms. If you have a severe case of a psychotic disorder, this may affect the size of the dose your GP prescribes. Your GP will also consider the side effects of the drugs.
These drugs are normally taken by mouth, although in cases injection may be required if a person is acting very irrationally.

Your GP may recommend a depot injection, which is antipsychotic medication injected into a muscle. This is a slow release and normally lasts for four weeks. This way of taking this type of medication will save you having to take a daily tablet.

If you are suffering from bipolar affective disorder, your GP may administer a mood stabilising drug, such as lithium. With this type of medication, results are generally a little slower in showing.

Therefore your GP may prescribe you with a fast acting course, just the immediate period.

Are there any side effects?
Short-term side effects include:
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness
  • Restlessness
Long-term side effects may include:
  • Parkinson’s disease (very rare)
  • Facial Jerking movements
You should always consult your GP before making any adjustment to your dose of medication.

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