Antipsychotics are medications used in the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. They are also useful in treating psychosis in bipolar disorder and some have mood stabilising effects. They reduce or eliminate psychotic symptoms such as paranoia, confused thinking, delusions and hallucinations.
They work by correcting some chemical imbalances in the brain, such as dopamine. The effects of antipsychotics are generally felt within several weeks of treatment, however it may take longer to feel the full effect.
There are two types of antipsychotics available, typical antipsychotics and atypical (newer) antipsychotics. Atypical antipsychotics have the advantage of fewer side effects.
Side effects of antipsychotics include:
- Drowsiness
- Weight gain
- Loss of menstrual periods in women
- Dizziness
- Stiffness or trembling in muscles
- Constipation
- Sexual problems
- Fluid retention
- Dry mouth
- Headaches Rarely, tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements of the mouth or face).
