Types of AntipsychoticsHealth care providers currently prescribe two main types of antipsychotics: typical and atypical. In some individuals, these can aid in reducing and preventing some of the common symptoms linked with certain mental health disorders. It is important to note that typical and atypical antipsychotics each include a wide variety of antipsychotic medications, all with different success rates and risks of serious side effects. Show
Typical or First-Generation AntipsychoticsTypical antipsychotics have been used since the 1950s. They are the first medications developed to treat symptoms of psychosis and act upon dopamine receptors. Typical psychotics can be divided into different chemical groups that could act in a similar way or share similar side effects. As such, the side effects caused by typical antipsychotics can vary significantly. Some simply make the user drowsy, while others can cause a negative impact on body movement that resembles the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (Parkinsonism).3 In some instances, the user may develop psychological symptoms, such as a lack of emotion or a disinterest in activities they once enjoyed. Common typical antipsychotics are often used to treat schizophrenia and associated disorders, and include:
Atypical or Second-Generation AntipsychoticsAtypical antipsychotics have been in use since the 1990s and are often referred to as “second-generation” antipsychotics. This category of medication antagonizes dopamine-serotonin receptors and tends to have different side effects than typical antipsychotics. For example, most muscular side effects are less severe, as are side effects that can cause sexual issues. However, these medications are more likely to cause metabolic issues such as rapid weight gain or dramatic changes in blood sugar levels. Common atypical antipsychotics are used to treat schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Those include:
What Side Effects Might I Experience from Taking Antipsychotics?Every antipsychotic medicine is unique and has its own set of potential side effects. When prescribing a medication, your doctor should thoroughly explain any risks to you, including those listed on the information packet provided when you pick up your medication from a pharmacy. Some individuals may not experience any side effects with antipsychotics, but many do. Typical side effects with antipsychotics could include:Antimuscarinic EffectsThese side effects are caused by changes to the levels of acetylcholine in your body. Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter in your body that contracts and relaxes muscles, dilates blood vessels, increases bodily secretions, and slows your heart rate. When this neurotransmitter is blocked or prevented from working as it should, a person can experience:
Blood DisordersAntipsychotic medication use can trigger blood disorders in some individuals. It can cause agranulocytosis, which is the loss of one type of white blood cell. This can make it easier to contract infections and lower your ability to fight them successfully. Other blood-related side effects include blood clotting disorders and a general reduction in white blood cells. Metabolic SyndromeSecond-generation or atypical antipsychotics are most associated with creating side effects that can develop into metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that occur together and increase your chances of developing heart disease and diabetes. A person doesn’t have to experience all these symptoms to be categorized with this condition. Symptoms of metabolic syndrome can include:
A doctor may recommend that you commit to a healthier lifestyle when taking antipsychotic drugs to combat any excess weight gain. Dealing with rapid weight gain can be difficult both physically and emotionally, so it is important to discuss any concerns with your doctor. ParkinsonismAs previously mentioned, this side effect is often associated with first-generation antipsychotics but can present itself in second-generation medication as well. Parkinson’s disease is associated with loss of dopamine, but is also associated with mood stabilizers, antidepressants and other drugs, vascular lesions, trauma to the brain, and other factors.7 Since many antipsychotics work to block dopamine, a person can experience Parkinson’s-like symptoms such as:
Sexual Side EffectsAntipsychotics can cause numerous side effects frequently associated with sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. These can include:
Emotional Side EffectsAntipsychotic side effects are not just physical—they can be emotional as well. When the brain’s chemical is artificially altered, even in an attempt to restore balance, emotions can be unpredictable and hard to manage. Potential emotional side effects include:
Any unexpected changes in your emotional state should be taken seriously, especially if you experience thoughts of suicide. If you experience these side effects, it is important to speak with a medical professional as soon as possible. They may be able to prescribe a different type of medication or help you cease use of your current medication in a safe and controlled manner. Stopping Antipsychotics There are several reasons a person may choose to stop using their antipsychotic medication. You may be experiencing unpleasant side effects, or you may want to explore your alternative options to manage your mental health concerns. Whatever your desire might be, it is important to cease antipsychotic medications carefully—halting the use of a medication often comes with its own side effects. If you are considering stopping your antipsychotics, remember these three tips. Don’t Stop SuddenlyIt takes time for antipsychotics to start working within your brain and body, and it takes time for them to stop affecting you as well. This medication is altering the chemical balance of your brain, so stopping suddenly could pose a serious risk to your health. Stopping suddenly can trigger an overwhelming relapse of psychotic symptoms. Another concern when stopping antipsychotics suddenly is tardive dyskinesia, which occurs when withdrawal from an antipsychotic after extensive use causes new psychotic symptoms to develop. Take It SlowThe safest way to stop taking your medication is to do so slowly and gradually. The longer you’ve been using an antipsychotic, the longer it could take to gradually wean away from the drug. A slow tapering method involves reducing your daily dose of medication over weeks and potentially months to ensure it isn’t a shock to your system. Get Professional SupportIt is important to avoid ceasing your medication alone. Mental health can be hard to manage, and it can feel impossible without support. Your best support options include your doctor or psychiatrist. They can provide the expert advice and tools you need to make an informed decision about seeking alternative care routes. You can also benefit from support from your friends and family or even peer support groups. Alternatives to AntipsychoticsMany individuals manage their mental health disorders without medication. If you’d like to explore ceasing use of your antipsychotic medication, discuss your options with your doctor or psychiatrist. Some antipsychotic alternatives can be used in conjunction with antipsychotics or as a means to replace the need for antipsychotic medication. Talk TherapiesTherapy continues to prove itself a useful tool for individuals dealing with mental health issues. Therapy allows you to discuss your concerns, understand your triggers, and find alternate solutions to handle your unique symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy5 or dialectical behavioral therapy are both great options for in-person support. Arts and Creative TherapiesIf traditional therapies simply aren’t enough, creative therapy is a great alternative or addition to talk therapy. These therapies enable your ability to communicate your emotions and deal with your symptoms in a way that doesn’t rely on expressing yourself verbally. Creative therapies may include painting, sculpting, music, drama, and more. EcotherapyEcotherapy utilizes nature and outdoor activities to provide an alternative focus for those experiencing mental health issues. It can provide both physical and mental relief. Options may include working on a conservation project, gardening, hiking, and biking. Complementary and Alternative TherapiesThis is a large category that can range from aromatherapy to acupuncture and everywhere in between. Complementary and alternative therapies often focus on holistic approaches that can provide relief from a wide variety of symptoms associated with mental health concerns. Finding What Is Right for Your Personal Health NeedsAntipsychotics are medications that were created to combat some of the common psychotic symptoms associated with mental health disorders. While these medications are beneficial to some, others experience severe side effects that impact their quality of life and affect their physical and mental health. If antipsychotics are negatively affecting your life, it is important to discuss the potential for alternative therapies with your doctor or psychiatrist. Alternative to Meds Center offers alternative treatment options for those who want to stop relying on antipsychotic medications. Managing and recovering from mental health disorders can be possible without pharmaceutical medications.Learn about antipsychotic withdrawal and begin to explore the possibility of finding long-term success without these risky medications. What is the most serious side effect of antipsychotics?All antipsychotic medications are associated with an increased likelihood of sedation, sexual dysfunction, postural hypotension, cardiac arrhythmia, and sudden cardiac death. Primary care physicians should understand the individual adverse effect profiles of these medications.
What is the main side effect of antipsychotic drugs?The adverse effects of antipsychotic medications range from relatively minor tolerability issues (e.g., mild sedation or dry mouth) to very unpleasant (e.g., constipation, akathisia, sexual dysfunction) to painful (e.g., acute dystonias) to disfiguring (e.g., weight gain, tardive dyskinesia) to life threatening (e.g., ...
What is a serious side effect of older antipsychotics?Side effects of particular concern in the elderly include anticholinergic reactions, parkinsonian events, tardive dyskinesia, orthostatic hypotension, cardiac conduction disturbances, reduced bone mineral density, sedation, and cognitive slowing.
What side effects are problematic for patients prescribed antipsychotic medication?The comprehensive assessment of antipsychotic side effects presents several challenges, one being the diversity of potential problems, including anticholinergic and metabolic side effects and adverse effects on the motor, endocrine and cardiovascular systems.
|
