biological treatments

• what is used to treat SCZ?

  use antipsychotics to treat SCZ - drug therapy
• antipsychotics

  drugs that reduce intensity of symptoms (positive symptoms) - target dopamine - dopamine antagonists
• typical antipsychotics

  -introduced in 1950s, manage symptoms

  -"first-generation"

  -examples: haloperidol & chlorpromazine ( C acts as a sedative)

  -work via blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, reduces effects of dopamine on the brain

  -only impact dopamine

  -taken in many forms e.g., tablets, liquids, injections max dosage = 1000mg, usually taken in 400-800mg

  -side effects: blurred vision; weight gain; tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements)

  -less effective - high drop out rates, alternative treatments, doesn't work well for all (get side effects) but good for psychosis symptoms
• atypical antipsychotics


  -introduced in 1990s, improved version of antipsychotics

  -"second-generations"

  -examples: clozapine & risperidone

  -work by balancing neurotransmitters - mainly target dopamine & serotonin (clozapine targets glutamate too)

  -taken in various ways e.g., tablets, liquid & injections (C cannot be injected due to agranulocytosis) - average dose of 300mg. Highest dosage of R so highest 12mg

  -side effects e.g., drowsiness; dizziness

  -are effective for mood & psychosis symptoms, fewer movement-related side effects, help manage symptoms & improve life
• biological treatments of SCZ - AO3


  Strength(s):

  -supporting research - atypical antipsychotics are effective & more effective than others at decreasing positive symptoms. Typical antipsychotics also reduced positive symptoms, 1k ppts compared to controls. D: not a fully effective treatment as they do not treat negative symptoms, other treatments may be needed (decreases effectiveness of APs).

  
  

  Weakness(es):

  -side effects: can have severe side effects e.g., tardive dyskinesia & suicidal thoughts. These treatments have high attrition rates so do not work. D: economic implications - people are not being treated with APs so are not fit to work (due to side effects) and cannot give money to the economy.

  -alternative treatments: different treatments that also help negative symptoms e.g., CBT - not as invasive as APs. Decreases the use of APs & a more holistic approach.