Menu Close

What are the side effects of schizophrenia medication?

What are the side effects of schizophrenia medication?

These are some of the more common side effects of antipsychotic medications:

  • Drowsiness.
  • Dizziness when you change positions.
  • Blurry vision.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Rapid heartbeat.
  • Sensitivity to the sun.
  • Skin rash.
  • Menstrual problems.

What is the most common drug used to treat schizophrenia?

Haloperidol, fluphenazine, and chlorpromazine are known as conventional, or typical, antipsychotics and have been used to treat schizophrenia for years. However, they sometimes have movement-related side effects, such as tremors and dystonia, a condition that causes involuntary muscle contractions.

How long do side effects of antipsychotics last?

Antipsychotics can cause various skin problems, for example: Allergic rashes. These usually occur within the first two months of starting treatment. They usually disappear when you stop taking the drug.

What are the two most common side effects of antipsychotic medication?

Side effects of antipsychotics can include the following.

  • Uncontrollable movements of the jaw, lips and tongue. This is known as tardive dyskinesia.
  • Uncomfortable restlessness, known as akathisia.
  • Sexual problems due to hormonal changes.
  • Sedation.
  • Weight gain.
  • A higher risk of getting diabetes.
  • Constipation.
  • Dry mouth.

Is there any hope for schizophrenics?

There is no known cure for schizophrenia, but the outlook for people who have this illness is improving. There are many ways to treat schizophrenia, ideally in a team approach. These include medication, psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and social services, as well as employment and educational interventions.

What are the best drugs for schizophrenia?

We’ll be talking about hot issues in schizophrenia. Joining me today are Drs been initiated on an LAI prior to demonstrating evidence of non-adherence to oral medication, or prior to being hospitalized or having to go to an emergency room.

Does medication for schizophrenia really work?

There is no cure. So to treat it, a doctor will prescribe medications that can ease symptoms and prevent them from coming back. The medications doctors prescribe most often for schizophrenia are called antipsychotics. They ease symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations. These drugs work on chemicals in the brain such as dopamine and serotonin.

What to expect from schizophrenia medications?

Treatment with medications and psychosocial therapy can help manage the condition. In some cases, hospitalization may be needed. A psychiatrist experienced in treating schizophrenia usually guides treatment. The treatment team also may include a psychologist, social worker, psychiatric nurse and possibly a case manager to coordinate care.

Should I take medication for schizophrenia?

Individual therapy. Psychotherapy may help to normalize thought patterns.

  • Social skills training. This focuses on improving communication and social interactions and improving the ability to participate in daily activities.
  • Family therapy.
  • Vocational rehabilitation and supported employment.
  • Posted in Advice