Biological therapies for schizophrenia: Drug therapy

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Typical antipsyhchotics: Around since the 1950s. Chlorpromazine can be taken as a tablet, syrup or injection. When taken orally, the daily dose is a max of 1000mg (for most it is a max of 400-800mg daily). Haan - presrciptions have declined over the last 50 years. There is a association between typical and dopamine hypothesis. Chlorpromazine acts as an antagonist in the dopamine system by blocking dopamine recpetors in synapses which normalises neurotranmission - reducing symptoms like hallucinations. It is also a sedative that can be given to those anxious in a hospital. As syrup is absorbed faster this tends to be used when trying to relax someone.

Atypical antipsychotics: Clozapine was trialled and withdrawn in the 70s due to deaths by agranulocytosis. Reintroduced in 80s. Dosage is lower (300-450mg) due to side effects. Clozapine binds to dopamine, serotonin and glutamate receptors. This can reduce depression and increase cognitive functioning. The mood-enhancing effect means it is also given to those at risk of suicide (in fact…