Describe + evaluate use of antipsychotic drugs

• Point 1: conventional antipsychotics

  One way antipsychotic drugs are used to treat schizophrenia is through conventional (first-generation) antipsychotics like chlorpromazine, which primarily block dopamine D2 receptors to reduce positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.
• Evidence 1: conventional antipsychotics

  These drugs reduce dopamine activity in the mesolimbic pathway, which is associated with psychotic features of schizophrenia. Cole et al. (1964) found that 75% of patients treated with conventional antipsychotics improved, compared to none worsening, while 48% given a placebo actually deteriorated.
• Evaluate 1: conventional antipsychotics

  This suggests high effectiveness over no treatment. However, many patients experience serious side effects such as tardive dyskinesia and Parkinsonism, raising ethical concerns about consent, especially when medication is administered during acute episodes without valid agreement.
• Link 1: conventional antipsychotics

  This indicates that while conventional antipsychotics can be effective in symptom management, they come with a significant risk of harm and ethical issues.
• Point 2: atypical antipsychotics

  Atypical (second-generation) antipsychotics like clozapine also act on dopamine and serotonin receptors but bind more loosely to D2 receptors, potentially reducing side effects while maintaining efficacy.
• Evidence 2: atypical antipsychotics


  Ravanic et Al (2009) found that clozapine was more effective than conventional drugs and had fewer adverse effects per patient (0.9 vs. 2-7-3.2).
• Evaluate 2: atypical antipsychotics

  This suggests atypical antipsychotics may offer a more balanced treatment. However, real-world effectiveness may be undermined by poor adherence, with Rettenbacher et al. (2004) reporting only 54.2% of patients fully complying with their prescriptions.
• Link 2: atypical antipsychotics

  This shows that even the most effective medication is limited by patient behaviour, particularly in cases where insight into illness is poor, as is often the case with schizophrenia.
• Conclusion:

  In conclusion, antipsychotic medication, especially atypical antipsychotics, has transformed schizophrenia treatment, allowing many to live more independent lives. However, ethical concerns, side effects, and high non-compliance rates complicate their real-world application, meaning drugs should be used carefully and often in conjunction with psychological interventions.