Psychopharmacology Assignment
Answer the questions pertaining to Psychopharmacology. A minimum of one paragraph per question. ADDRESS ALL PARTS OF THE QUESTIONS. Questions must be answered in detail and provide references if any are used.
- Describe the original set of antipsychotic medications.
- Describe the difference (pharmacologically–DA receptors…) between the original antipsychotic medications and the atypical antipsychotic medication.
- Argue for one valid reason a schizophrenic patient would rather ask for Haldol over Clozapine (hint: side effects discussion). Be descriptive! Hint: look to one particularly dangerous side effect.
- Describe a new antipsychotic on the market: Caplyta (Lumaterperone). What is it, how does it work in the brain (what does it affect in the brain), and what is it used for?
- REAL-WORLD ISSUE: Describe any newer medications for psychotic disorders that are different from the typical and atypical antipsychotics (release date 2017 or newer).
The original set of antipsychotic medications, also known as first-generation or typical antipsychotics, includes drugs such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), haloperidol (Haldol), and fluphenazine (Prolixin). These medications work primarily by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, particularly the D2 receptor subtype, which is thought to be involved in the development of psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia.
Atypical antipsychotic medications were developed later and include drugs such as clozapine (Clozaril), risperidone (Risperdal), and olanzapine (Zyprexa). These medications have a broader mechanism of action and target multiple neurotransmitter systems in the brain, including dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. Atypical antipsychotics have been found to be more effective in treating negative symptoms of schizophrenia and have a lower risk of causing movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia.
Despite the advantages of atypical antipsychotics, some schizophrenic patients may still prefer to use Haldol over Clozapine due to the side effects of atypical antipsychotics. One particularly dangerous side effect of Clozapine is agranulocytosis, a condition in which the bone marrow stops producing white blood cells, leaving the patient vulnerable to infections. This can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition known as neutropenia. Patients taking Clozapine must have regular blood tests to monitor their white blood cell counts, and the medication must be stopped immediately if the patient’s white blood cell count drops too low.
In contrast, Haldol has a lower risk of causing agranulocytosis than Clozapine, although it may cause other side effects such as movement disorders, sedation, and weight gain. Some patients may prefer to take the risk of movement disorders over the risk of agranulocytosis, especially if they have experienced these side effects before or have a family history of the condition. Additionally, Haldol is often less expensive than atypical antipsychotics, which may be a consideration for patients with limited financial resources.
Overall, the decision to use a particular antipsychotic medication should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and preferences. Patients should be informed of the potential side effects of each medication and the importance of regular monitoring to minimize the risks of these side effects.