Psychotic drugs, also known as antipsychotics, are medications used to treat mental disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression with psychotic features. These medications work by modulating the brain’s neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, to reduce psychotic symptoms, including delusions and hallucinations. There are two main types of psychotic drugs: typical and atypical.
Typical antipsychotics date back to the 1950s and work by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. Examples of typical antipsychotics include haloperidol (Haldol), chlorpromazine (Thorazine), and fluphenazine (Prolixin). These medications are effective in treating the positive symptoms of psychosis, such as delusions and hallucinations, but can have serious side effects, including movement disorders like tardive dyskinesia.
Atypical antipsychotics are newer medications that were developed in the 1990s. These drugs work by blocking several different types of neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin, to reduce symptoms. Common atypical antipsychotics include risperidone (Risperdal), olanzapine (Zyprexa), and quetiapine (Seroquel). Atypical antipsychotics are generally better tolerated than typical antipsychotics, but they can still cause side effects such as weight gain, sleepiness, and increased risk of diabetes.
In addition to the two main types of antipsychotic drugs, there are also a number of other medications used to treat psychotic disorders. These include antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), mood stabilizers such as lithium, and antipsychotic-like medications such as clozapine (Clozaril). The type of medication prescribed will depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and other factors. It is important to discuss the potential side effects and benefits of any medication with a doctor before starting a new treatment.
