Pharmacology, Dosage, and Adverse Effects of Commonly Prescribed Psychiatric Medications

Antipsychotic Medications: Classification, Uses, and Potential Adverse Effects

Antipsychotic medications are widely used for managing psychiatric disorders, primarily schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They are classified into typical and atypical antipsychotics, each with distinct pharmacological properties.

Classification of Antipsychotic Medications

• Typical Antipsychotics: Also known as first-generation antipsychotics, include drugs such as haloperidol and chlorpromazine.
• Atypical Antipsychotics: Second-generation medications, including risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine, which generally have a lower risk of extrapyramidal side effects.

Uses of Antipsychotic Medications

These medications are primarily indicated for treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes severe depression. They help regulate neurotransmitter activity, particularly dopamine, to alleviate psychotic symptoms.

Potential Adverse Effects

• Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): Involuntary movements, tremors, and rigidity, more common with typical antipsychotics.
• Metabolic Effects: Weight gain, diabetes risk, and lipid abnormalities, primarily associated with atypical antipsychotics.
• Cardiovascular Risks: QT prolongation, orthostatic hypotension, and increased cardiovascular morbidity.
• Hormonal Changes: Hyperprolactinemia leading to menstrual irregularities and gynecomastia.