Research Exercise

Atypical Antipsychotics

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You must read each slide, and complete any questions on the slide, in sequence.
Research Exercise
Atypical Antipsychotics

Schizophrenia is difficult to treat, and patients diagnosed with schizophrenia don’t see the vast improvement that is seen in those diagnosed with other disorders. The symptoms of schizophrenia are extremely difficult to cope with, both for the individual and the individual’s loved ones. There are medications, however, such as atypical antipsychotics, that have been helpful for those with schizophrenia. The atypical antipsychotics help individuals think more clearly, stabilize their moods, and reduce the positive symptoms of schizophrenia (e.g. hallucinations and delusions). Unfortunately, atypical antipsychotics do not fully treat the negative symptoms of schizophrenia (e.g., flat or blunted affect, avolition).

http://www.psychiatrictimes.com/schizophrenia/atypical-antipsychotics-treatment-schizophrenia-spectrum-disorders

After reading “Atypical Antipsychotic Treatment for Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders” consider the questions below. Then submit your responses.

1 of 5

When is the usual onset of schizophrenia?

2 of 5

A longer duration of untreated psychosis may be a predictor of:

3 of 5

What was the first atypical antipsychotic approved by the FDA?

4 of 5

Risperidone is associated with what kinds of adverse effects?
One possible answer might be side effects of weight gain, mild sedation, and extrapyramidal symptoms.

5 of 5

What are some developmental issues related to atypical antipsychotics that are being used for treatment of schizophrenia in childhood and adolescence?
One possible answer might involve long-term effects. There is no clear evidence as to the longterm effects of these drugs on the developing brains of children and adolescents. Children and adolescents also seem to be more sensitive than adults to the adverse of effects of atypical antipsychotics (e.g., extrapyramidal symptoms and sedation).

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