Side Effects of Typical Antipsychotics
One of the most notable examples of typical antipsychotics is Haloperidol, a medication utilized in the treatment of schizophrenia and various other mental disorders. These medications are associated with several common side effects, which include:
- Headaches.
- Insomnia.
- Depression.
- Dry mouth.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Erectile dysfunction.
- Urinary retention.
- Hypotension.
- Muscle rigidity.
- Shortness of breath.
- Irritability and confusion.
Side Effects of Atypical Antipsychotics
Atypical antipsychotics are characterized by having fewer side effects compared to their typical counterparts, making them suitable for long-term use. Examples of this class of medications include Risperidone, Quetiapine, and Paliperidone. These drugs are prescribed for a range of conditions, such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychosis, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The side effects associated with atypical antipsychotics may include:
- Dry mouth.
- Blurred vision.
- Constipation.
- Dizziness.
- Weight gain.
- General weakness.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Parkinsonism.
- Akathisia (restlessness and difficulty sitting still).
Complications of Antipsychotics
The administration of antipsychotic medications necessitates a careful consideration of the positive effects in alleviating psychotic symptoms against the long-term complications these drugs might entail. In some cases, these complications can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. Generally, the complications differ between first-generation (typical) and second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics, as outlined below:
- Complications of Typical Antipsychotics: These medications are believed to potentially cause several movement disorders, including:
- Extrapyramidal disorder.
- Hyperkinesia.
- Tardive dyskinesia.
- Dystonia.
- Bradykinesia.
- Complications of Atypical Antipsychotics: These are thought to contribute to metabolic issues, such as the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and obesity.
- Common Complications: Certain complications may occur with both first- and second-generation antipsychotics. These include orthostatic hypotension, cardiac arrhythmia, and the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.