What Are Antipsychotics?
Antipsychotics are a type of medication that psychiatrists typically prescribe to treat conditions and symptoms associated with psychosis.
However, the use of this drug does not always indicate the presence of symptoms or conditions related to psychosis.
This is because these drugs also have a very important role in the treatment of other conditions.
Psychosis itself is a series of symptoms that indicate that the brain is not processing information properly.
The main symptoms include hallucinations and delusions. In addition, psychosis can also involve disorganized thoughts and behavior, or changes in the way an individual expresses emotions.
There are two types of antipsychotic drugs available: first generation, also known as “typical antipsychotics”, are the first type of drugs developed to treat psychosis.
Then there is the second generation, also known as “atypical antipsychotics”, which are currently the mainstay of treatment for psychosis.
This is because the side effects tend to be fewer compared to the first generation.
Benefits of Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics are medications that are useful for treating a variety of brain-related conditions, as well as for treating a variety of mental health disorders, many of which are triggered by brain problems.
This medication is effective in treating complex, bothersome, and serious conditions.
Some of these conditions are difficult to treat with other drugs, or even difficult to cure completely.
Additionally, many individuals who experience this condition require long-term, even lifelong, treatment, which requires the use of these medications as part of the treatment.
Antipsychotic Dosage
The dosage of first-generation types may vary depending on the type of drug.
For example, Haloperidol is prescribed in a dose range of 0.5-2 mg, 2-3 times daily, with a maximum dose of 30 mg per day.
Meanwhile, Fluphenazine is recommended to be consumed at 2.5-10 mg per day, divided into 2-3 doses, with a maximum dose of 40 mg per day.
There is also Perphenazine which is recommended in a dose range of 4-8 mg, 3 times a day, with a maximum dose of 64 mg per day.
Although first-generation antipsychotic drugs have a lower price than second-generation antipsychotics, they also have a greater risk of side effects.
Newer, second-generation antipsychotics are preferred because of their lower risk of side effects.
Second-generation antipsychotics include risperidone, paliperidone, olanzapine, and clozapine, each with specific dosages and usage rules.
Remember, to prevent addiction or unwanted dangerous side effects, the dose of medication to be consumed must be prescribed by a psychiatrist.
How to Use Antipsychotics
This drug is available in various forms such as tablets and solutions that can be consumed.
Each format has a varying dosage, which is adjusted to the individual’s needs and medical conditions.
However, it should be remembered that the use of this drug needs to be carefully monitored by a psychiatrist because this drug carries a fairly large risk of side effects.
Caution in Using Antipsychotics
When using this drug, you need to pay attention to several factors.
The biggest factors influencing antipsychotic use include:
Health conditions at the time of drug use.
Possible side effects caused by various drugs.
Any condition that may be affected or worsened by side effects or complications.
Healthcare professionals are the best source of information about the medications they recommend.
Experts can help recommend a medication that is appropriate to an individual’s health condition.
Antipsychotic Side Effects
Side effects from using antipsychotic drugs can vary from one individual to another.
Some people may experience side effects such as:
Drowsiness.
Weight gain.
Occurrence of muscle stiffness or restless movements.
Dry mouth.
Blurred vision.
Dizzy sensation.
Constipation, nausea, or indigestion.
Changes in sexual ability or desire.
If you have concerns about these side effects, it is recommended to discuss them with a psychiatrist or mental health care professional.
Experts will suggest steps that can be taken to reduce or overcome these side effects.
Antipsychotic Interactions
Antipsychotic medications can interact with several other types of medications.
Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, vitamins, or herbal remedies you are taking.
This can help them determine if there is a risk of interaction with the antipsychotic medication they prescribe.
Contraindications of Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics can cause increased cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) and blood sugar (hyperglycemia) levels, and increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
This medication also has the potential to cause side effects such as dizziness and excessive drowsiness.
In addition, antipsychotics can also affect prolactin hormone levels in the body.
Later, this can interfere with fertility and cause amenorrhea (late menstruation) and galactorrhea (discharge from the breasts) in women and people who were considered female at birth.
Some antipsychotics can also cause immune disorders, such as agranulocytosis, which is a serious condition that weakens the immune system.