Drug Therapy for Schizophrenia
TYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTICS
Example = chlorpromazine
Reduce the positive symptoms of schizophrenia (auditory hallucinations and delusions)
They block dopamine receptors in the synapses of the brain, reducing the action of dopamine.
They arrest dopamine production by blocking the D2 receptors in synapses that absorb dopamine, in
the mesolimbic pathway and reduce positive symptoms.
But they do tend to block all types of dopamine activity (in other parts of the brain too) which can
cause harmful side effects (urinary problems, constipation, visual issues)
ATYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTICS
Example = clozapine
Atypical antipsychotics attempt to target D2 dopamine activity in the limbic system
They bind to dopamine, serotonin and glutamate receptors.
Work on the negative symptoms of schizophrenia (anxiety, depression and cognitive functions)
They also have an effect on other neurotransmitters such as serotonin.
They generally have fewer side effects but some side effects include neuroleptic malignant syndrome
and weight gain
EVALUATION OF DRUG THERAPY
➔ Lack of effectiveness - side effects may mean people discontinue use
➔ Economic benefits - schizophrenics can recover and get back to work and pay taxes
➔ Benefits for drug companies - earn profit from the NHS buying these drugs
TYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTICS
Example = chlorpromazine
Reduce the positive symptoms of schizophrenia (auditory hallucinations and delusions)
They block dopamine receptors in the synapses of the brain, reducing the action of dopamine.
They arrest dopamine production by blocking the D2 receptors in synapses that absorb dopamine, in
the mesolimbic pathway and reduce positive symptoms.
But they do tend to block all types of dopamine activity (in other parts of the brain too) which can
cause harmful side effects (urinary problems, constipation, visual issues)
ATYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTICS
Example = clozapine
Atypical antipsychotics attempt to target D2 dopamine activity in the limbic system
They bind to dopamine, serotonin and glutamate receptors.
Work on the negative symptoms of schizophrenia (anxiety, depression and cognitive functions)
They also have an effect on other neurotransmitters such as serotonin.
They generally have fewer side effects but some side effects include neuroleptic malignant syndrome
and weight gain
EVALUATION OF DRUG THERAPY
➔ Lack of effectiveness - side effects may mean people discontinue use
➔ Economic benefits - schizophrenics can recover and get back to work and pay taxes
➔ Benefits for drug companies - earn profit from the NHS buying these drugs
