Antipsychotic drugs

Antipsychotic drugs, also known as neuroleptics or antischizophrenic drugs, are primarily used to manage psychosis, including delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking, particularly in conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. These medications can be broadly classified into typical (first-generation) and atypical (second-generation) antipsychotics. Typical antipsychotics, such as haloperidol and chlorpromazine, primarily target dopamine D2 receptors, often leading to side effects like extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia. Atypical antipsychotics, such as risperidone and olanzapine, target a broader range of neurotransmitter receptors, including serotonin receptors, and tend to have a more favorable side effect profile, though they can still cause metabolic issues such as weight gain and diabetes.
In clinical pharmacology, the focus is on understanding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of these drugs-how they are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted, as well as their mechanisms of action and therapeutic effects. Individual variability in response to antipsychotic treatment is significant, necessitating personalized treatment plans and careful monitoring for adverse effects. Research continues to evolve, aiming to improve efficacy, minimize side effects, and understand the genetic and biochemical underpinnings of patient responses to these crucial medications