Biological therapies for schizophrenia :Drug therapy -A-Level Psychology
Antipsychotics-drugs used to reduce intensity of positive symptoms.
Typical antipsychotics-drugs that act as dopamine antagonists.
Atypical antipsychotics-drugs for schizophrenia that target a range of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.
Drug therapies:
-antipsychotic drugs are the most common treatment for schizophrenia .
-may be in the form of tablets or syrup or injections.
-may be required in the short or long term.
-antipsychotic drugs are divided into typical and atypical drugs.
Typical antipsychotics:
-there is a strong association between the use of typical antipsychotics like chlorpromazine and the dopamine hypothesis.
-they act as dopamine antagonists in the dopamine system
-Antagonists are chemicals that reduce the action of a neurotransmitter.Dopamine antagonists block dopamine receptors in the synapses of the brain,reducine the action of dopamine.
-according to the dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia this dopamine-antagonist effect normalises neurotransmission in key areas of the brain,reducing symptoms like hallucinations.
-it is also an effective sedative due to its effect on histamine receptors.
Atypical antipsychotics:
-developed to improve the effectiveness of drugs in suppressing symptoms and minimise side effects
-clozapine has potential fatal side effects of a blood condition.It binds to dopamine receptors and also acts on serotonin and glutamate receptors.It is believed that this improves mood and reduces depression and anxiety in patients,so may improve cognitive functioning.
-risperidone binds more strongly to dopamine receptors than clozapine and is effective in much smaller doses.
Evaluation:
Evidence for effectiveness-Ben Thornley et al reviewed studies comparing the effects of chlorpromazine to control conditions in which patients received a placebo so their experiences were identical except for the presence of chlorpromazine in their medication.Chlorpromazine was associated with better functioning and reduced symptom severity.Data from three trials showed that relapse rate was lower when the drug was taken.
Serious side effects-typical antipsychotics have side effects of dizziness,agitation,weight gain ,stiff jaw.Long-term use may result in tardive dyskinesia which is caused by dopamine supersensitivity and causes involuntary facial movements.NMS is also a more serious side effect as dopamine action in the hypothalamus is blocked which causes a high temperature ,comas,delirium and can be fatal.Also atypical drugs also have side effects and blood tests are required for agranulocytosis.
Biological therapies for schizophrenia are treatments that target the biological aspects of the disorder. The most common form of biological therapy for schizophrenia is drug therapy, which involves the use of antipsychotic medications to reduce symptoms.
Antipsychotic medications work by blocking or reducing the activity of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is thought to be involved in the development of psychotic symptoms.
There are two main types of antipsychotic medications: typical antipsychotics and atypical antipsychotics. Typical antipsychotics are older medications that work primarily by blocking dopamine receptors. Atypical antipsychotics are newer medications that have a broader range of activity and also affect other neurotransmitters.
The side effects of antipsychotic medications can include drowsiness, dry mouth, weight gain, tremors, muscle stiffness, and restlessness. Some people may also experience more serious side effects, such as movement disorders or a decreased white blood cell count.
Antipsychotic medications typically take several weeks to start working. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if symptoms do not improve immediately.
Antipsychotic medications cannot cure schizophrenia, but they can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Many people with schizophrenia will need to take medication for the rest of their lives to manage their symptoms.
In addition to medication, there are a number of alternative treatments for schizophrenia, such as psychotherapy, social skills training, and family therapy. It is important to work with a mental health professional to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Stopping antipsychotic medications suddenly can lead to a relapse of symptoms, so it is important to work with a healthcare provider to taper off the medication gradually if it is no longer needed. Additionally, some people may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking antipsychotic medications abruptly.
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