Psychotic Disorders and Antipsychotics
It is very difficult to diagnose psychotic disorders as psychosis typically is a syndrome that presents with a mixture of symptoms including the presence of delusions and hallucinations.
“>Delusions are fixed beliefs that have an inadequate rational basis and cannot be changed by rational arguments or evidence to the contrary. Hallucinations are perceptual experiences of any sensory modality that occur without real external stimulus, yet are vivid and clear just like normal perceptions, but not under voluntary control.
How antipsychotic medications help?
Antipsychotic medications help treat psychotic symptoms by changing brain chemistry to reduce psychotic symptoms like hallucinations, delusions and disordered thinking.
Types of antipsychotics available
There is a long history of the treatment of psychotic disorders. The earliest prescribed antipsychotics are called first generation antipsychotics. The newest medications for psychotic disorders are called second generation antipsychotics. Both groups of antipsychotics are well researched and prescribed equally. However, these medications may not provide adequate symptom relief. This is why patients are to develop a working relationship with their prescriber to understand the benefits as well as the difficulties related to taking specific medications.
Side effects of antipsychotic medications
Antipsychotic medications can have a variety of side effects, including: weight gain, myocarditis, anticholinergic effects, sedation, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, orthostatic hypotension, sexual changes, anticholinergic effects, blurred vision, drowsiness, xerostomia (dry mouth), tremors, agranulocytosis, dizziness, insomnia, metabolic syndrome problems, movement effects, tardive dyskinesia, extrapyramidal symptoms, heart arrhythmia, headaches, hyperprolactinemia, loss of menstrual periods, neurologic side effects, prolongation of QTc interval, and other. Due to those serious side effects, Dr. Wegierek requests to see her patients as often as it is possible to monitor and take action before they occur.
Contact us for more information, consult with specialist and schedule a visit.
Our services are available in Chicago and Orland Park.
Faq