Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology, Eighth Edition

Atypical Antipsychotics

Schizophrenia is difficult to treat, and patients with schizophrenia don’t experience the vast improvement that is seen in those 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, such as atypical antipsychotics, that have been helpful for those with schizophrenia. The atypical antipsychotics (p. 397) 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 Antipsychotics for Treatment of Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders” consider the questions below. Then submit your responses.

Question 1

When is the usual onset of schizophrenia?

by the age of 16

by the age of 14

by the age of 17

by the age of 19

Question 2

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

a poorer prognosis.

certain types of hallucinations.

better reactions to medications.

extrapyramidal symptoms.

Question 3

What was the first atypical antipsychotic approved by the FDA?

risperidone

aripiprazole

clozapine

quetiapine

Question 4

Risperidone is associated with what kinds of adverse effects?

Answers will vary. Some possibilities: weight gain, mild sedation, and extrapyramidal symptoms.

Question 5

What are some concerns related to the atypical antipsychotics that are being used for the treatment of schizophrenia in childhood and adolescence?

Answers will vary. One possibility: There is no clear evidence as to the long-term 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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