Describe 1 method of modifying scz (10)

• Para 1: antipsychotic medication

  One method of modifying schizophrenia is through antipsychotic medication, which is split into conventional (typical) and atypical (second-generation) drugs.
• para 2: conventional antipsychotics

  Conventional antipsychotics, such as chlorpromazine, were developed in the 1950s. They work primarily as dopamine antagonists, especially at D2 receptor sites. After dopamine is released by the presynaptic neuron, chlorpromazine blocks dopamine from binding to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. Initially, dopamine release increases, but over time, production decreases due to depletion. This leads to reduced dopamine activity, especially in the mesolimbic pathway, which is linked to positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. Chlorpromazine also blocks other dopamine receptors (D1, D3, D4, D5) and serotonin receptors, though its main effect is on dopamine.
• Para 3: atypical antipsychotics

  Atypical antipsychotics, such as clozapine, were developed in the 1990s. They also act as dopamine antagonists but differ in receptor binding. Clozapine binds to fewer D2 receptors and more to D1, D4, and 5-HT2A serotonin receptors. This broader receptor profile may improve effectiveness and reduce side effects. According to Seeman's (2002) fast-off theory, atypical drugs bind more loosely to D2 receptors, meaning they occupy the site briefly enough to reduce symptoms without causing long-term side effects like tardive dyskinesia. Atypical drugs also have a shorter half-life, with D2 receptor occupancy declining within 24 hours.