{"id":1403,"date":"2023-11-10T20:42:17","date_gmt":"2023-11-10T20:42:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/?p=1403"},"modified":"2023-11-10T20:42:17","modified_gmt":"2023-11-10T20:42:17","slug":"antispychotic-medications","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/depression-medications\/antispychotic-medications\/","title":{"rendered":"Reference Guide to Antipsychotic Medications"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b>Highlights\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Psychosis refers to the inability to distinguish between what\u2019s real and what isn\u2019t.\u00a0<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Common psychosis conditions include bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and some types of depression.<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antipsychotic medications come in two categories: typical and atypical.<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Typical antipsychotic medications have been shown to increase the risk of movement-related side effects, while atypical antipsychotic medications may lower this risk.<\/b><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antipsychotics have been shown to increase the mortality rate in elderly individuals with dementia-related psychosis.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Psychosis is characterized by perceptions and thoughts that blur the line between what is real and what isn\u2019t. Research estimates that psychosis will affect <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/portal.ct.gov\/DMHAS\/Initiatives\/Evidence-Based\/First-Episode-Psychosis\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 in 100 individuals<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at some point in their lifetimes. For many, antipsychotic medications allow them to regain a sense of control and normalcy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common forms of psychosis include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schizophrenia<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bipolar disorder<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain types of depression<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Delusional disorder<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, a person might think that someone on TV is directly talking to them or sending them messages. Or they might hallucinate and see, hear, or taste things that aren\u2019t real.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No matter the specific condition, antipsychotic medications may provide relief from symptoms so patients can live a higher quality of life. Learn more about how antipsychotics work, the different types of antipsychotic medications, and how to find the lowest price for prescriptions in this guide.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>How Do Antipsychotic Medications Work?<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1406\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/young-girl-in-a-therapy-session.jpg\" alt=\"young girl in a therapy session\" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antipsychotic medications, also called neuroleptics, are a class of drugs used to treat various mental health conditions. They work by affecting the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain \u2014 primarily dopamine and serotonin. These are neurotransmitters that regulate mood, emotions, and perception.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In psychotic conditions like schizophrenia, there is usually an excess of dopamine activity in certain brain regions. Antipsychotic medications help reduce this excess. Specifically, typical antipsychotics bind to D2 receptors in the brain to reduce dopamine\u2019s effects, which reduces hallucinations and delusions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In atypical antipsychotics, the medication will interact with other neurotransmitters, such as serotonin. This additional mechanism can improve mood and cognitive function and reduce some of the side effects associated with typical antipsychotics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The precise mechanism of action can vary from drug to drug. Individual responses can also vary, which is why their use is closely monitored by healthcare providers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antipsychotics can be broadly classified into two subtypes: typical (first-generation) and atypical (second-generation). These categories refer to when the drugs were developed and their mechanism of action.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s more information on both subtypes.<\/p>\n<h2>Typical Antipsychotics<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1407\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/3.jpeg-1-min.jpg\" alt=\"getting a tablet from a blister pack\" width=\"780\" height=\"500\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typical antipsychotics are the \u201ctraditional\u201d medications developed to treat psychosis. These medications work to reduce dopamine activities in the brain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following is a list of all typical antipsychotic medications currently approved by the FDA and their uses:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/haloperidol.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Haloperidol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Haldol). Used for the treatment of schizophrenia, acute psychosis, and Tourette&#8217;s syndrome.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/fluphenazine.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fluphenazine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Prolixin and others). Used for the treatment of schizophrenia and rebalances dopamine to improve thinking, mood, and behavior.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/chlorpromazine.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chlorpromazine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Thorazine and Largactil). Used for psychotic disorders, preoperative apprehension, and other conditions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/perphenazine.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Perphenazine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Trilafon and others). Used for the treatment of schizophrenia and for the control of severe nausea and vomiting in adults.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/trifluoperazine-1-mg-tablet\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trifluoperazine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Stelazine). Used for the treatment of schizophrenia and for short-term treatment of generalized non-psychotic anxiety.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/loxapine.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loxapine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Loxitane and Adasuve powder). Used for the treatment of schizophrenia and is also indicated for the management of the manifestations of psychotic disorders.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/pimozide.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pimozide<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Orap). Used for Tourette&#8217;s syndrome.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/thiothixene.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thiothixene<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Navane). Used for schizophrenia.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While typical antipsychotics have been shown to be effective in reducing positive symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions, they also carry a risk of significant side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Warnings and contraindications vary by medication. Following is a list of warnings related to typical antipsychotics as a group.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4>Warnings<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These medications are not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis and are associated with an increased risk of death in elderly patients.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Severe central nervous system (CNS) depression. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typical antipsychotics can cause sedation and can increase the effects of other central nervous system depressants.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Severe cardiovascular disorders. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These drugs should be used with caution in patients with heart disease due to the risk of hypotension and arrhythmias.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>History of seizures. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As these medications can lower the seizure threshold, they should be used with caution in patients with a seizure disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Liver disease. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caution is advised when prescribing these drugs to patients with liver disease as they are metabolized by the liver.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Renal disease. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adjustments in dosage may be necessary in patients with kidney disease.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Prostatic hypertrophy. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These medications can exacerbate urinary retention and should be used with caution in patients with prostatic hypertrophy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Glaucoma. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antipsychotics can increase intraocular pressure and should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Contraindications (Who Should Not Take These Drugs)<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Known hypersensitivity to the drug. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patients with a known allergy to a specific typical antipsychotic should not take that medication.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Comatose or severely depressed states. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These drugs should not be used in patients who are comatose or have severe central nervous system depression.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bone marrow suppression. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patients with a history of bone marrow suppression should not be treated with typical antipsychotics.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Liver failure. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These drugs are contraindicated in patients with severe liver failure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blood dyscrasias.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Patients with certain blood disorders should not take typical antipsychotics.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Interactions with other drugs.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> These drugs can react with other medications, so always check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting anything new. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1Jno4VBkZiEgi7-0-2VmgoRNMa1B_ghPbDj8bvgPtMgo\/edit#heading=h.uo93qtuawtpa\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">See more about drug interactions below<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Please note that this information is a general guide and may not include all warnings and contraindications for every typical antipsychotic. And not all warnings apply to all drugs in this subtype.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For warnings and contraindications for a specific medication, talk to your doctor or search the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/labels.fda.gov\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FDA database<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for the labeling information for that drug.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1408\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/4.jpeg-min.jpg\" alt=\"doctor talking with a patient\" width=\"780\" height=\"439\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Side Effects<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like warnings and precautions, potential side effects will vary from one typical antipsychotic to another. Following is a list of side effects that are commonly seen with medications in this subtype.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These include acute dystonia (muscle spasms, stiffness), akathisia (restlessness), parkinsonism (symptoms similar to Parkinson&#8217;s disease), and bradykinesia (slowness of movement).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tardive dyskinesia (TD).<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This is a serious and often irreversible condition that causes repetitive, involuntary movements, most often affecting the mouth, lips, and tongue.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A rare but life-threatening reaction that can cause a high fever, stiff muscles, confusion, irregular pulse or blood pressure, a fast heart rate (tachycardia), sweating, and rapid breathing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sedation. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many typical antipsychotics can cause sedation or drowsiness, which may impair alertness and affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Anticholinergic effects. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and cognitive impairment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Orthostatic hypotension. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A drop in blood pressure upon standing that can cause dizziness or fainting.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Photosensitivity. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburns or skin rashes, can occur with the use of typical antipsychotics.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Weight gain.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Some typical antipsychotics can lead to an increase in weight, which may be associated with other metabolic changes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sexual dysfunction.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This can include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and other disruptions to sexual health.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Agranulocytosis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Particularly with certain typical antipsychotics like thioridazine, there can be a risk of a significant drop in white blood cell count.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Increased prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia).<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These medications can cause menstrual irregularities, galactorrhea (inappropriate lactation), and changes in libido. Hyperprolactinemia can also cause other symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, and decreased bone density.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cardiac issues.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Some of these drugs can affect the heart&#8217;s rhythm, potentially leading to arrhythmias. However, this is a more common side effect of atypical antipsychotics than typical antipsychotics.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blood disorders. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is a risk of agranulocytosis (a potentially fatal drop in white blood cells) with some typical antipsychotics. However, this effect is most likely with clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Liver function abnormalities. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of these medications can cause changes in liver enzymes and, in rare cases, lead to liver damage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Again, the side effect profile can vary significantly from one medication to another within this subtype. Additionally, the severity and occurrence of side effects can depend on your age, dosage, duration of treatment, and other medical conditions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re taking any of these medications, you should be closely monitored by your healthcare provider for side effects, especially when starting a new medication or changing doses.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typical antipsychotics can interact with a variety of other medications, which can affect how well the medications work or increase the risk of side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&#8217;s a brief summary of potential drug interactions with typical antipsychotics:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Central nervous system (CNS) depressants.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Combining antipsychotics with other drugs that slow down the brain&#8217;s processes, like sleeping pills, anxiety medication, or strong painkillers, can lead to increased drowsiness, difficulty breathing, and other serious side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Anticholinergics. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These drugs are used for various conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders. They include atropine, Ditropan, and allergy medications like Benadryl. When taken with typical antipsychotics, they can increase the risk of side effects like dry mouth, constipation, and trouble urinating. Anticholinergics can also cause other side effects, such as blurred vision, drowsiness, and cognitive impairment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blood pressure medications. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antipsychotics can lower blood pressure, so taking them with blood pressure medications, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/blood-pressure-medications\/reference-guide-to-beta-blockers\/\">beta blockers<\/a> or ACE inhibitors, can cause blood pressure to drop too low, leading to dizziness or fainting.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Anticonvulsants. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are medications used to control seizures, including antiseizure medications like valproic acid (Depakote) and mood stabilizers, such as lamotrigine (Lamictal) and topiramate (Topamax). Some anticonvulsants can affect the levels of antipsychotics in the blood, which can decrease their effectiveness or increase side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antidepressants.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Some antidepressants can interact with antipsychotics, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects or affecting how well either medication works. These include medications like amitriptyline (Elavil), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and others.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Anticoagulants.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> These medications help prevent blood clots and include warfarin (Coumadin) and apixaban (Eliquis). Antipsychotics can increase the risk of bleeding if taken with anticoagulants. However, this is more likely to happen with atypical antipsychotics than typical antipsychotics.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antiarrhythmics.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> These are drugs used to treat irregular heartbeats. Examples are amiodarone (Cordarone) and sotalol (Betapace) They can interact with antipsychotics and may increase the risk of heart rhythm problems. This is also more common with atypical antipsychotics than typical antipsychotics.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Substances that affect liver enzymes.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Many typical antipsychotics are broken down in the liver. Taking them together with drugs that affect liver enzymes \u2014 such as rifadin (Rifampin, used to treat tuberculosis) or phenytoin (Dilantin, an anticonvulsant) \u2014 can lead to increased levels of the antipsychotic in the body, which can increase side effects. Ketoconazole (an antifungal medication) and grapefruit juice can also have this effect.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lists of potential drug interactions are never complete, and interactions vary among the different medications in this subtype. It\u2019s a good idea to check the Drugs.com <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/drug_interactions.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drug Interaction Checker<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for a list of interactions for the specific medication you\u2019re taking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note also that it\u2019s important that you inform your healthcare providers about all the medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products, to avoid harmful interactions. Your providers can then monitor for interactions and make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Atypical Antipsychotics<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1409\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/5.jpeg-min.jpg\" alt=\"Tablet bottles of Atypical Antipsychotics\" width=\"780\" height=\"439\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atypical antipsychotics are \u201csecond-generation\u201d antipsychotic medications because they\u2019re newer formulas that have a broader mechanism of action. They have been shown to be effective in improving positive and negative symptoms of psychosis and carry a lower risk of movement-related side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Currently, about <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/mental-health-disorders\/schizophrenia-and-related-disorders\/antipsychotic-drugs\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">95% of antipsychotic medication prescriptions<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are atypical antipsychotics.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common examples of atypical antipsychotic medications include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/aripiprazole-10-mg-tablet\"><b>Aripiprazole<\/b><\/a><b> (Abilify). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Used for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and as an adjunct for major depressive disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/pro\/asenapine-tablets.html\"><b>Asenapine<\/b><\/a><b> (Saphris).<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indicated for schizophrenia and the manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/brexpiprazole.html\"><b>Brexpiprazole<\/b><\/a><b> (Rexulti). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and as an add-on treatment for major depressive disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/cariprazine.html\"><b>Cariprazine<\/b><\/a><b> (Vraylar). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Used for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/clozapine.html\"><b>Clozapine<\/b><\/a><b> (Clozaril). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indicated for treatment-resistant schizophrenia and to reduce the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior in schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/iloperidone.html\"><b>Iloperidone<\/b><\/a><b> (Fanapt).<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Approved for the treatment of schizophrenia.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/lurasidone.html\"><b>Lurasidone<\/b><\/a><b> (Latuda). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Used for the treatment of schizophrenia and depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/olanzapine-15-mg-tablet\"><b>Olanzapine<\/b><\/a><b> (Zyprexa).<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/paliperidone.html\"><b>Paliperidone<\/b><\/a><b> (Invega).<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/quetiapine-er-150-mg-tablet\"><b>Quetiapine<\/b><\/a><b> (Seroquel). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Used for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and as an adjunct for major depressive disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/risperidone-0.25-mg-tablet\"><b>Risperidone<\/b><\/a><b> (Risperdal). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and irritability associated with autistic disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/mtm\/ziprasidone.html\"><b>Ziprasidone<\/b><\/a><b> (Geodon). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and the acute treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Warnings and Contraindications<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following are general guidelines for atypical antipsychotics, but they vary from drug to drug in this subtype. Review the specific warnings, precautions, and contraindications of your specific medication with your provider or the FDA Database label information.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4>Warnings<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These patients have a higher risk of death when treated with antipsychotic drugs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cerebrovascular adverse events, including stroke. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These medications can increase risk of stroke in elderly patients.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a rare but life-threatening condition that can cause high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, irregular pulse or blood pressure, a fast heart rate (tachycardia), sweating, and rapid breathing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tardive dyskinesia. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a syndrome of potentially irreversible, involuntary muscle movements.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Metabolic changes. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atypical antipsychotics can increase cardiovascular or cerebrovascular risk, including hyperglycemia, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and body weight gain.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pathological gambling and other compulsive behaviors.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Compulsive or uncontrollable urges to gamble, binge eat, shop, and have sex have been reported.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Orthostatic hypotension and syncope. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These drugs may lead to sudden drops in blood pressure and dizziness, particularly at the beginning of treatment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Falls.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Antipsychotics may cause sleepiness, low blood pressure, and motor and sensory instability, which may lead to falls that can cause fractures or other injuries.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Leukopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patients with a history of a low white blood cell count (WBC) or a drug-induced leukopenia\/neutropenia should have their complete blood count (CBC) monitored frequently during the first few months of therapy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Seizures.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Atypical antipsychotics can lower the seizure threshold.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Contraindications (Who Should Not Take These Medications)<\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contraindications may vary according to specific medication, but following are general guidelines for drugs in this subtype.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People with any of the following in their history should not use atypical antipsychotics:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Known hypersensitivity. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patients with known hypersensitivity (allergy) to any component of the drug should not use it.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Those with severe allergic reactions to any of the components of the drug formulation should avoid it.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use together with drugs known to cause QT prolongation or electrolyte imbalance. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These drugs should not be used together as they can increase the risk of heart rhythm problems.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Conditions where central nervous system depression is harmful. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Such conditions include coma or severe CNS depression.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>History of agranulocytosis or severe neutropenia with a previous antipsychotic. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patients with this history should not use these drugs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Severe liver impairment.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Certain atypical antipsychotics should not be used in patients with severe liver impairment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Diagnosis of a prolactin-dependent tumor.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Patients with a prolactinoma should not use some atypical antipsychotics due to the risk of increased serum prolactin levels.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Interactions with other drugs.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> These drugs can react with other medications, so always check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting anything new. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1Jno4VBkZiEgi7-0-2VmgoRNMa1B_ghPbDj8bvgPtMgo\/edit#heading=h.m4t0n9ppivlr\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">See more about drug interactions below<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The list above is meant as a general guide only and will vary according to the specific medication you\u2019re taking. Only your doctor can decide if the benefits outweigh the risks for any medication based on your personal history.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Side Effects<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1410\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/6.jpeg-min.jpg\" alt=\"woman experiencing side effects from Antipsychotic Medications \" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like the antipsychotic medications in the typical group, atypical antipsychotics can also have significant side effects. The list below is not a complete list of potential side effects, and not all of these occur with all atypical antipsychotics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Weight gain.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Atypical antipsychotics are known to cause weight gain in many individuals, and this can be associated with increased risks for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sedation. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Similar to typical antipsychotics, atypical ones can also cause sedation or drowsiness.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Anticholinergic effects. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atypical antipsychotics can have a drying effect and cause various side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Orthostatic hypotension. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These medications may cause a drop in blood pressure with standing, leading to dizziness or fainting.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Metabolic syndrome. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This group of conditions includes increased blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Increased cholesterol. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atypical antipsychotics can raise cholesterol levels, which may contribute to heart disease.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Seizures. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some atypical antipsychotics may lower the seizure threshold, leading to an increased risk of seizures.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hyperprolactinemia. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elevated levels of prolactin can occur, leading to symptoms such as breast enlargement, production of breast milk, and menstrual disturbances.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Diabetes. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These medications can increase blood sugar levels, sometimes leading to the development of type 2 diabetes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cataracts.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Particularly with quetiapine, there is some evidence to suggest an association with the development of cataracts.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Agranulocytosis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atypical antipsychotics, especially clozapine, can cause a drop in white blood cell count, leading to agranulocytosis, a white blood cell disorder.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cardiovascular conditions.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Clozapine has been associated with myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Venous thromboembolism (VTE). <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is an increased risk of blood clots in the veins with atypical antipsychotic use.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pulmonary embolism. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a part of VTE, pulmonary embolism can occur, which is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sudden cardiac death.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Atypical antipsychotics have been linked to an increased risk of sudden cardiac death due to arrhythmias, or irregular heart rates.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult with your healthcare provider to learn about additional common and serious side effects specific to the medication you\u2019re taking.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>CNS depressants. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking atypical antipsychotics with other medications that cause drowsiness, like sleeping pills (Ambien) or anxiety medications (Xanax), can make you extra drowsy or even dangerously slow down your breathing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blood pressure medications. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re taking drugs for high blood pressure, adding an atypical antipsychotic might cause drops in blood pressure, causing faintness or dizziness.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Parkinson&#8217;s disease treatments. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medications for Parkinson&#8217;s disease, like Sinemet (a combination of levodopa and carbidopa), might not work as well if you&#8217;re also taking an atypical antipsychotic.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Medicines that affect liver enzymes. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some drugs can affect how your body processes atypical antipsychotics. For example, St. John&#8217;s Wort can make the antipsychotic less effective, while grapefruit juice might increase side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Drugs with anticholinergic effects. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medications that dry you out or make it hard to urinate, like some antihistamines, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or bladder control meds, like oxybutynin (Ditropan), can have these effects increased when taken with atypical antipsychotics.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Drugs for arrhythmia. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medications that affect your heart&#8217;s rhythm, like quinidine, when taken with atypical antipsychotics, can increase the risk of an irregular heartbeat, which can be serious.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blood thinners.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If you&#8217;re on a blood thinner like warfarin (Coumadin), atypical antipsychotics could either increase or decrease its effects. You may need more frequent monitoring with blood tests.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Conclusion<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antipsychotic medications have been shown to help patients with psychosis live a more comfortable life. They are typically prescribed by a mental health provider or psychiatrist after a thorough evaluation of a patient, including their health history and a review of the potential side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, given the risks and possible medication interactions, it\u2019s essential to notify your provider of any side effects or reactions. Working closely with your healthcare provider will allow them to find the most effective treatment for your specific needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Get the Lowest Price for Antipsychotic Medications at BidRx<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finding affordable antipsychotic medications is easy with BidRX. We work directly with pharmacies and let them compete for your business. Simply list your prescription and accept the best offer based on your budget. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get started<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with a free account today.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This information is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Antipsychotic medications help to alleviate symptoms of psychosis. Learn more about how antipsychotics work, types of antipsychotic medications, and more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1404,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1403","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-depression-medications"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1403","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1403"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1403\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1411,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1403\/revisions\/1411"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1404"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1403"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1403"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1403"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}